With just a few weeks until the fall semester begins, a steady stream of new and returning students are currently scheduling classes at River Parishes Community College in Sorrento. Counselors are meeting daily with groups of students to help them select courses to fit each individual student’s scheduling needs. Since opening its doors ten years ago, enrollment at RPCC has continuously grown. Recent semesters have averaged about a 15 percent increase in student enrollment.
Dr. Bill Martin, executive vice- chancellor of RPCC, said many students choose RPCC over other colleges in the area because the cost is so much less. Full-time tuition at the community college is about one-half the price of four-year colleges and universities in the region.
He said others choose RPCC because they like the fact that with a small number of students in each class, instructors can give students personal attention.
Allison Vicknair, Dean of Students, said she finds the students and their parents are very appreciative of the one-on-one attention they get when they come to register.
“They appreciate the easy accessibility to our admissions, financial aid and advising services,” said Vicknair. “Because we are a small school, we are able to advise almost all of our students face-to-face and assist them with their academic plans, course selection, and transfer.”
Michael Capps, who was scheduling courses for his second semester at RPCC, said he likes the teachers at the community college.
“I had really good biology and math teachers,” Capps said. “I like that they’re very approachable for you to ask questions during their office hours.” Capps said convenience is also a big plus.
“The location is key,” Capps added. “Since I work full-time in Gonzales, RPCC is just a quick drive for me.” Capps said he eventually hopes to get a degree in kinesiology at LSU, but is glad he can take the pre-requisite courses he needs at RPCC.
River Parishes Community College is an open admission, fully accredited, two year college offering a wide range of day, evening, and on-line courses. Classes taken at RPCC are transferable to colleges and universities throughout the state.
RPCC offers associate degree programs in General Science, Liberal Arts, Science in Teaching and General Studies, with concentrations including Environmental Science, General Business, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science.
Fall 2009 classes begin on Monday, Aug. 24. Students who register after Aug. 9 will have to pay a $25 late fee, but late registration will be accepted through Aug. 26. Additional information is available on the website at www.rpcc.edu.
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