BELFAST — Is college still worth it? According to a recent broadcast on NPR, it is indeed, for many reasons:

"Adults are feeling that, as long as they have a job, they don't need to go to college," he [Doug Shapiro from the National Clearinghouse] says. "And yet many of those jobs today don't really have the career potential or the earnings potential to support a family that they could get if they had a college degree." In addition to increased earnings over time, research shows that having a college degree means you are less likely to be unemployed and more likely to weather uncertain economic conditions, such as a recession. So if people are choosing not to go to college right now, there may be consequences down the road. 

However, jumping into college without preparation and support is not always the best pathway to success, especially if you are an adult learner who has completed some college courses in the past or one who has never attended college, according to College Connection, in a news release.

Let the staff of the College Connection, a no-cost College Transitions Program, help you prepare for the next step, whether it’s a short term certificate, or a two- or four-year-degree.

Classes meet weekly on Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., starting on February 4. Students are now accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the semester and can set up custom college readiness plans to move them towards their goals in the most efficient manner possible.

“We recognize that each student has unique needs, and we always do our best to accommodate those needs to give each student the best possible learning experience,” said College Connection, in a news release. “As a College Connection student, you will have a supportive setting to learn or relearn the academic skills you need to succeed in college. Your instructors will work closely with you to make sure your math, English, and college readiness skills are where they need to be to help you be as prepared as possible for college. We even have tutors who help students while they are in our program as well as once they’ve entered college!

The course also provides comprehensive academic advising and career planning designed just for your needs. Students will have guidance with every aspect of getting ready for college including applying for financial aid, finding scholarships, and completing college applications. Many students receive scholarships that are renewable each year and provide funds for childcare, mileage, and other expenses beyond their college tuition.

“ We’re here for you every step of the way; we’ll help you succeed!,” said College Connection. “If you are thinking about college, make College Connection your first step toward a future that makes you the professional you want to be!”

This program will help you chart a course for your future – no matter where you are right now. 

If you would like to find out more about the program, view the spring schedule and read what students have had to say, visit the website at https://sites.google.com/site/belfastcollegeconnection/.

FMI contact Carolyn Haskell at 930-2434 or collegeconnection@rsu71.org.

NEW Location: Belfast Adult Education, 39 Lions Way, Belfast, Maine

Directions: Now located at Belfast Area High School (BAHS). Enter at the traditional BAHS driveway off Waldo Avenue. Then, follow the driveway up the hill, past the BAHS front door and swimming pool area to the south side of the school. Follow the driveway around to the right as far as its goes, and you will see the entrance with signs indicating Belfast Adult Education and RSU 71’s Central Office.