As a way to give back to the community, Lakeland Community College will host a Free College Day Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018, at its off-site facility located at 201 Water Tower Dr., Madison, Ohio. Doors open at 8 a.m.

Historically Free College Day has been held on the college’s main campus in Kirtland, Ohio. With the school’s approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer full Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees at the Madison location, the college is making sure that all students in the community are aware of this wonderful opportunity.

“We are happy to give back to those in the Madison and surrounding areas with offering an event that gives students a preview of what Lakeland East has to offer,” said Kristina Willey, Lakeland’s director for off-site facilities. “We are hoping this event brings many students to Lakeland East who might be looking to earn a degree close to home, while saving thousands.”

One class offered at Free College Day will focus on the benefits of an associate degree. Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are typically pursued by students intending to transfer to a four-year institution for completion of a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree.

“Lakeland’s tuition is about one-third the cost of most four-year schools and credits transfer seamlessly, making it an affordable choice for students with these degree goals,” Willey added.

Free College day is set up in three sessions, each session beginning on the hour at 9, 10 and 11 a.m. Classes are 45 minutes in length and each session offers a choice of seven classes. The event features a total of 15 noncredit classes that are free and open to the public for the day.

Several classes speak to traditional students transitioning from high school to college, as well as current students assessing majors and college success. These groups can learn about financial aid, career exploration, the benefits of an associate degree, useful tips for online classes, and the habits of successful college students. For students looking to pursue a career in the medical field, there will be a class dedicated to the exploring careers in the health and medical field led by current Lakeland counselors.

For those who are interested in learning, or sharpening computer skills, a basic computer software class offered where students will be introduced to Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

For anyone looking to make a lasting impression in the workplace, there will be a resume and cover letter writing workshop, along with a session on improving interview skills. These sessions will certainly help anyone who is looking advance his or her career.

In addition, the event offers an information session for Lakeland’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program and the Admissions Process. CCP offers high school students the opportunity to enroll at Lakeland on a part-time or full-time basis, and earn college credit which may also be used to fulfill their high school graduation requirements.

Participants will receive drawstring backpacks, while supplies last.There will be door prizes, and a free lunch served at noon.

For a list of class times and activities, and to register, visit lakelandcc.edu/east or call 440.525.7411. Seating is limited, and classes are subject to change.

About Lakeland Free College Day
Lakeland PresidentDr. Morris W. Beverage Jr.began Lakeland's Free College Day in 2002 (then known as Lakeland Pride Day) as a way to thank the community for its support and to offer an open opportunity for all to see what’s available at the college. Lakeland's Free College Day classes are sample classes that do not count toward college credit but will provide participants with valuable information.

Lakeland East is located on Water Tower Dr. in Madison, off Route 528 just north of I-90.

By: Kristina Willey