Design Time

I’m currently taking the Web Page Design course, and we’re learning how to create web pages with HTML. Basically, the instructor gives a PowerPoint presentation introducing us to a chapter in the textbook. In-class activities are very important as this is practice review for the real homework assignment given towards the end of class. This is to be completed and sent to the instructor before the next class meeting.

During practice exercises we are allowed to help each other, and we can ask the instructor as many questions as we’d like. I like how LTC instructors remind students that there is no such thing as a “stupid question.” The instructor patiently explains how a code is written and goes around the classroom answering each student’s question. If she’s busy with another student, I’ll turn to my classmates for help.

What I enjoy the most about Web Page Design’s class projects is how the result will appear right away. When entering the codes for a text or an image in Notepad, it needs to be exact or else it will not show up correctly. HTML codes are not easy to remember nor are they very fun to me, but it’s something that I will have to eventually start to catch on to. At times it can get frustrating to learn where a code needs to be put in order for it to be seen on the web page, but this is where I’m given the chance to discover and to correct the error.

Sandy’s Six Tips for Student Success

College can be very overwhelming at times, but I have found ways that helped me reduce stress. Let me introduce you to Sandy's Six Tips for Student Success:

1. Set goals– It's important to know your motivation and why your education is meaningful
2. Be organized – Understand your responsibilities and do not procrastinate!
3. Study hard – Identify your learning style and learn actively.
4. Be honest – Your learning abilities and grades will be affected by academic deceitfulness.
5. Manage your well-being – Get some sleep, feed your body, go for walks. Find some sort of balance in school, work, and entertainment.
6. Get involved – Find out about student organizations and service learning to acquire skills and gain experience.

I'm most always doing my homework in a computer lab or in an area where the atmosphere is quiet and calm. The new renovation of the library and especially the furniture that is provided gives me a strong sense of comfort where I can just kick off my shoes, study, read the paper, or just lay back and relax. Do you want to know what's even better? The Academic Support Center is located right in the library; therefore, if you're having difficulties with any of your math, science or computer classes go there to get extra help.

You want to make sure you also bring a lunch or something to snack on while you're in class. Do not go the whole day without eating anything. Bring a banana, an apple or an orange to eat. Remember to drink lots of water! I usually try to drink as much water as I can from the water fountains to rejuvenate my body. Drinking lots of water also helps me from falling asleep in class. Hahaha!

Day by Day

Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing! Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing! My alarm goes off early at six in the morning. Some days it’s seven or eight. I get up out of bed and grab my towel to take a nice, warm shower. Scrambled eggs with rice and ketchup are my usual breakfast (believe it or not; but, I don’t ever get tired of eating the same breakfast every morning). I start my vehicle and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes and then take off for an approximate 25-30 minute drive to LTC’s Cleveland Campus. I find a parking spot, throw on my backpack, and walk to class. This is a typical morning for me from Monday through Friday.

Monday mornings I have Office Professionalism and so far we’ve covered the use of time management and prioritization through self-assessment activities along with learning about the importance of diversity. In class, we all participate in group assignments and share ideas to educate one another. I find this very enjoyable and valuable.

The instructors are really good about giving us a 10 minute break in between classes, and during this time I either use the restroom or go for a walk around the halls to shake the cramp off my legs from sitting so long. Before my next class, which is normally in the late afternoon, I spend my time studying and researching other coursework given in other classes at the library or in a computer lab. I also make time to join student activities, such as BINGO, which is held in the Cafeteria.

At the end of the day, I’m ready to just go home and sleep!

Getting Involved

This year I plan to join the Multicultural Committee Advisory Council (MCAC), which is a committee with the purpose to “build bridges between Lakeshore Technical College and the multicultural communities to break the barriers to education and create mutual support in meeting the educational needs of our communities.”

I certainly would be interested in exploring LTC’s diverse opportunities for cultural learning and academic enhancement. Personally, I believe that participating in one or more activities has a positive impact on student gratification and college experience. What other benefits are there for outside-of-the-classroom experiences during college? You’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends and connect with people, gain knowledge about others, be able to give back to the community, and yes, you will have fun.

There are several clubs and organizations available to students that serve as a liaison for them to support their common career goals. I recommend that you become a member if you’re interested in becoming familiar with state and national activities, helping out with workshops, attending seminars and tours, and assisting with other public organizations. Check out all the clubs LTC offers: http://www.gotoltc.edu/studentservices/clubs_organizations.php.

Speaking of student activities, on Thursday, February 9, Hypnotist Chris Jones will be performing in the Cafeteria (L270) from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. See you there!