Westchester Community College, State University of New York

A. New first-time, full-time students will get their counselor assignments early in September.

A. Discussions about on-line TEAS testing are currently underway. Please keep checking the website as this is where updates will be posted. Please make sure you continue check your WCC emails and the BlackBoard shell

A. The college places a high priority in communicating with its students. In the past few months we have held multiple town halls, providing students with a two-way communication channel. We recently launched our Viking Weekly newsletter that features important news, events and other information of interest for students. And we will be introducing a chat service on our website to provide immediate answers to questions regarding admissions, financial aid, and other important topics.

A. Updates as to the College’s re-emergence level is posted on the website. Information is also disseminated via the Viking Weekly newsletter, social media and email. Specified levels determine how many people are allowed on campus at any one time. Regardless, students should not seek to enter College property unless specifically authorized and scheduled to do so by a Professor or Dean.

A. About 90% of our classes will be offered remotely. There are two types of remote classes. A majority of classes will be synchronous, meaning they will take place scheduled in real-time and are conducted entirely through remote/online environments with your instructor and classmates in attendance. Some classes will be asynchronous, meaning there are no scheduled meeting times; rather, learning takes place online independently without an instructor and course materials will be accessible via Blackboard, where students may learn at times convenient to them via pre-recorded video lessons, power points and/or readings. A limited number of classes, such as labs in Nursing, Respiratory Care, Radiologic Technology and Engineering, will be offered on-site, because they require access to specialized labs and equipment. For more details please visit https://www.sunywcc.edu/about/updates-from-the-college/

A. This was an emergency policy instituted for the Spring and, at this point, we are not anticipating resuming it in the fall. Generally speaking, this policy does not help our students when they are looking to transfer to other institutions.

A. We are still hearing from our affiliates about whether clinicals will be on-line or in person.  Graduating seniors will be given first priority for onsite clinicals if prioritization becomes necessary between onsite vs on-line.

A. Most of our classes will be taught remotely, either synchronously (scheduled times with teacher and classmates) or asynchronously (independently at any time you chose). A limited number of classes, such as labs in Nursing, Respiratory Care, Radiologic Technology and Engineering, will be offered on-site, because they require access to specialized labs and equipment. Those classes will be conducted with social distancing protocols, following room capacity charts for all rooms.

A. The modality of instruction will be shown in the Class Search on MyWCC.

A. Classes that require specialize equipment, spaces, or materials will be prioritized for on-campus delivery.  The majority of our faculty have developed teaching methods that allow us to deliver the curriculum on-line, without requiring students to come to campus.  Most of our classes will meet together, “synchronously” on-line, using video conferencing, on-line discussion, other learning tools, and with live instructors at the schedule class times.  We also offer classes that are “asynchronous” on-line, which means that they do not have set meeting times and the instructor is not present.  Students are given deadlines for completing work and assessments but can complete the work for the class according to their own schedule.

A. You should not wait. Register now to ensure you get into your top-choice classes. The listings at MyWCC are up-to-date.

A. Classes that were initially scheduled to be taught on campus will, in most cases, be taught remotely. They will either be taught synchronously (in real time) or asynchronously (you can access the course materials anytime). Most of these courses will be taught synchronously and meet on the same day and time as originally planned. You can confirm schedules and modality of instruction at MyWCC.

A. We anticipate deciding about Spring 2021 during October. Registration for Spring 2021 begins on Monday, October 26. Hopefully we can make a decision early enough so that spring courses will reflect any changes.

A. The College’s Board of Trustees voted at the meeting held on June 17, 2020 to NOT increase tuition for the Fall 2020 semester.

A. This varies for each student because of different unique circumstances. Once you have completed your TAP application, regularly check your MYWCC account under Financial Aid.

A. To upload Financial Aid documents, log into MyWCC, use the Financial Aid Document Upload button. For security purposes, do NOT send confidential information via email. We are currently developing a plan for students to provide documents, such as proof of citizenship, that cannot be delivered electronically. Please check back here for updates.

A. The NYS Peralta Dream Act is designed for this specific category of students. Apply here. International students can get more information here. We want to make sure our students get every dollar in support they can, so we encourage contacting our Financial Aid office at finaid@sunywcc.edu.

A. This varies for each student because of different unique circumstances. Once you have completed your TAP application, regularly check your MYWCC account under Financial Aid.

A. Normally work-study is coordinated with jobs on campus. We are looking for virtual work that students can do with the campus community. There is federal money available and we are making sure our students qualify.

A. The College is committed to providing students with a robust and holistic college experience. Student Fees support Personal Counseling, Student Involvement, Athletics, Health Services, Student Support Services, Academic Counseling, and many other areas that are continuing to serve students and offer a wide range of engaging programs and events that immerse students in their learning experiences. Since these functions remain open and available for students, the corresponding fees will continue to be charged in accordance with students’ registered hours.

A. Absolutely. In order to be considered you must file applications for FAFSA and TAP. Once you fill out these applications you will automatically be considered for scholarships from the Westchester Community College Foundation.

Non-citizens and non-residents are also eligible for scholarships. Go to Financial Aid Page scholarships category for international students. Visit: https://www.sunywcc.edu/admissions/finaid/international-student-application/

DACA students should file a NYS Peralta Dream Act application for state aid, which also qualifies you for WCC aid. Visit: www.hesc.ny.gov/dream/

A. Conditions in the United Kingdom caused the International Summer School at Cambridge University to cancel its 2020 Programme. We will continue to closely monitor conditions in the United Kingdom and here at home and will resume sending students to study at Cambridge again when it is safe and practical to do so.

A. If the “Instructional mode” on the schedule is listed as “Hybrid,” the course will have some in-person meeting time.  This applies to fewer than 1% of our classes.  Science labs are being conducted on-line.

A.   According to social distancing guidelines, our labs have reduced occupancy and furniture removed accordingly.  The areas will be cleaned and sanitized prior to and after occupancy.  Buildings will be equipped with hand sanitizing stations and all restrooms will be equipped with adequate paper towels and soap.

A. Please email praise for faculty to the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Vanessa Morest, at Vanessa.Morest@sunywcc.edu. Faculty acknowledgement can also be sent directly to the faculty directly, to their deans or President Miles. This feedback may be considered when faculty are nominated for Foundation Faculty Excellence Awards.

A. The Scholarship Recognition Ceremony is being rescheduled for Fall 2020 and will take place virtually.  Students will receive more information as soon as it is available.

A. When you file the semester documentation for accommodations, be specific about your needs. The Disability Counselors will draw up a plan to provide you with the accommodations you need and that is required by the ADA, and to ensure your success at Westchester Community College. Contact the Disabilities Office as early as possible in the process but know that they are there for you throughout the year.

A. One option is to look at our asynchronous courses, which provide more schedule flexibility. Another suggestion is to contact the faculty member to ask for accommodations. We will investigate further options.

A. Students with a documented disability who have extended time for exams are still entitled to this accommodation during remote learning.  

Students with a documented disability, in need of accommodations, are responsible for disclosing this to the Disability Services Office (DSO) and providing documentation at disability.services@sunywcc.edu. 

Once documentation has been approved, each semester the student can make an online request for accommodations by completing the Request for Referral to Faculty form

For more information about Disability Services please visit our webpage at https://www.sunywcc.edu/student-services/disability-services/

A. We are examining every possibility for full return to campus. The gym and pool will most likely be among the last facilities to open due to the nature of the activities that occur and the difficulty to properly practice social distancing and other health concerns related to use of these spaces. We do offer virtual programs for recreational sports and fitness such as online Zumba, yoga classes, among others.  These virtual programs are free for currently enrolled students.  More information can be found on the Athletics Department website under the Recreation heading in the menu bar.

A. We are reviewing social distancing and other health and safety guidelines to determine if our student-athletes on fall sport teams will be able to practice during the Fall 2020 semester.  Student Athletes will hear more information from the Athletic Department leadership about the status of Fall 2020 in the coming weeks.

A. Dependent upon the maximum number of individuals allowed on campus at any one time, Dining Services will open with limited service and hours at the Viking Café in the Student Center. We will adhere to all necessary safety protocols, including social distancing. Ordering will be primarily through the Dining Services mobile app or email for advanced ordering. There will be no made-to-order options, but a variety of grab ‘n’ go meals and beverages. Orders can be picked up or delivered. Upon expansion of the allowable campus population, we will expand locations, hours and offerings.

A. Yes! The Department of Student Involvement will continue to offer all the exciting programs and opportunities to get involved, including community building events, co-curricular programming, multicultural celebrations and events, leadership development programs, service learning, and much, much more! 

Student clubs and organizations will also continue to operate as they hold their meetings and events remotely.  They will still be eligible to receive budgets for use on approved expenditures. 

Be sure to visit www.sunywcc.edu/getinvolved to learn more about the dozens of opportunities to be engaged and involved at WCC!  If you have a specific question, please email getinvolved@sunywcc.edu and one of the staff members will get back to you.

A. The College has many different software programs available for student use for free or greatly discounted, including Office 365 Adobe Creative Cloud. For a full list of titles available, go to https://www.sunywcc.edu/about/it/software/.

Additionally, we are working towards making computer space available on a limited basis.  This will include specialized computer labs, like those for our film and engineering classes.  Some of these labs may be at our Extension Centers, to make access easier for students. Students should anticipate that the availability of computers will be limited by social distancing and cleaning requirements.

A. On-line support is available through SUNY as Blackboard is a resource that is managed centrally through SUNY.  However, due to COVID, we are hoping to launch student support through WCC in August.  This is the link to SUNY on-line support: https://online.suny.edu/help/

A. Yes!  The College will continue its Laptop Loaner Program in Fall 2020.  All currently enrolled students can submit a request to borrow a laptop for their WCC coursework.  For more information and to complete the form, please click here.

A. The safety and well-being of our community is our number one priority!  Westchester Community College offers students mental health services and support through our Personal Counseling Department (PCD).  Our team of licensed mental health professionals has been working with students remotely during the current crisis and will continue to offer one-on-one counseling services, group counseling, and other programs, including weekly Wellness Workshops.

In addition, Personal Counseling offers students the opportunity to take an anonymous online Stress & Depression Questionnaire.   After students complete the anonymous form, a Personal Counselor will review your Questionnaire and post a personal response to you on a secure website. The response will include information, recommendations, and options for next steps. You decide what's next. You'll have the option of communicating with the counselor through this website, e-mail, or via Zoom. Or, you can decide to do nothing further at this time.  It's up to you. No follow-up services will be provided unless requested.

The Personal Counseling Department website has many Resources including this downloadable guide for Managing Anxiety during COVID-19.

Students can visit www.sunywcc.edu/personalcounseling for more information or email personalcounseling@sunywcc.edu with a specific question.   Counselors will get back to students soon as possible. However, students who are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, should not wait for a response from the Personal Counseling Department. Instead, they should call 914-606-6911 for Campus Security or 911 for local police.

A. We are working with a system called the Viking Success Network, through which faculty are assigned to students for such support. All new students will be assigned to a specific counselor, who will reach out to each student at least twice in each semester to ensure the student is adjusting well and is receiving the resources they need.

A. Students should go to the B&N WCC Bookstore website (sunywcc.bncollege.com) where all required and optional textbooks and educational materials will be available. Upon receipt, orders will be fulfilled and shipped within 24-48 hours. Any questions regarding availability, purchasing, etc. of any textbook or course material can be sent to the Bookstore via email (SM8263@bncollege.com) or by calling the store at 914-347-3858.

Dependent upon the maximum number of individuals allowed on campus at any one time, the Bookstore may open for limited hours during the fall.

A. We are studying a variety of ways in which we can support students by opening up computer lab space and making the library’s first floor available, but we have to follow protocols for maintaining a safe environment. We also are exploring virtual study groups. The technology has really evolved so we are excited about the possibilities.

A. Study space will be available in the library.  We are also investigating ways to make classroom space available through a sign-up process if additional space is needed and we can do so safely.

The College will remain in a full remote posture until the pandemic fully abates, EXCEPT that select Faculty, Staff and Students will be permitted to enter College property to perform essential functions and/or academic instruction that requires a student use of specialized equipment, locations, and/or materials and/or are needed for degree/program completion.  Students should not seek to enter College property unless specifically authorized and scheduled to do so by a Professor or Dean. And, all persons who are permitted to enter upon College property must abide by the following rules:

• Face coverings are mandatory at all times;
• Completion of the College’s Health Questionnaire is mandatory on the day of and prior to entry upon any College property;
• Social distancing (6+ feet separation between persons) must be maintained;
• Temperature checks at points of entry MAY be required; and
• Access only buildings, rooms and spaces necessary for official business.

Anyone coming to campus will see many new health safety improvements, such as:

• Limiting the overall number of people at or in any given location;
• New room occupancy limits for social distancing;
• New hand sanitizers installed in various high-traffic locations;
• New paper towel dispensers to augment air hand dryers;
• Available restrooms are single-occupancy;
• Handicap entrances are motion operated;
• Hallways allow traffic to move in one direction; 
• Daily deep cleaning of College facilities; and
• Upgraded maintenance levels of air ventilation systems throughout campus.

Student College Identification Cards will be issued remotely.  Students will submit their photograph and request the issuance of a College Identification Card by completing the web form located at https://www.sunywcc.edu/student-services/student-id-photo-submission/ 

Parking restrictions are suspended and parking stickers/passes are not being distributed.

Q. What cleaning agents will maintenance use in sanitizing everything? I am asking because some cleaning agents trigger my allergies and may trigger my asthma.

A.  Service counters will be equipped with plexi-glass partitions, but social distancing is necessary. 

A. Under Dr. Miles’ leadership and with support of a full-time Chief Diversity Officer (CDO), the college has been executing a comprehensive Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion agenda including:

• encouraging inclusivity throughout the curriculum;
• providing training and workshops on diversity, cultural competency/anti-racism, micro-agressions, and crucial conversations;
• hiring practices that are inclusive and equitable;
• data analysis to monitor key performance indicators;
• purchasing policies to ensure bidding access to Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE); and
• promoting relevant co-curricular programming.

We have hosted a variety of events during summer 2020 and will share future activities on our website and through social media. We are committed to transparency in sharing outcomes from these efforts.