My name is Latoya Rogers.  I am a recent graduate from MiraCosta College with an A.A. in University Studies, Literature and Writing.  My experience at MiraCosta has been wonderful--I love this school. My professors were great, my counselors were caring and professional. I hope the information contained in my blogs will be both informative and inspirational to you as you journey through the phases of this book called “life.”   Have a great semester!  
 
    This first week of school is usually the most hectic, from trying to find your way around to trying to crash a class that is already filled to capacity. If you are attempting to crash a class try to show up early with an add card and let the professor know your situation, most likely there are a bunch of other hopefuls trying to do the same.  There is always a possibility that you won’t be able to crash the class, so prepare yourself and maybe take a class that you are not interested in--who knows it, could be a blessing in disguise.

    If you are new to MiraCosta, a great way to get involved is by joining campus clubs, playing sports, working on campus or forming study groups with your classmates.


    Make the most out of your education by taking advantage of the services and programs that are available to assist you along the way such as financial aid, free tutoring, scholarships, counseling, student success workshops, the health center and much more.  

    Make sure that you complete an education plan (Ed plan) with your counselor, especially if you are not sure what your major is going to be.  This way you won’t waste time and money by taking classes that don’t meet the general education requirements required to graduate.  

    Make sure to catch college hour on Thursdays at noon. The first College Hour kicked off Thursday, August 28. There is usually some form of entertainment and free food! Throughout the semester MiraCosta College offers fairs loaded with information for students such as the Health & Safety Fair, the Men’s Health Fair, the Volunteer Fair, and other community events.  

    Catch MiraCosta’s Multicultural Festival on Saturday, September 13. This is a great way to mingle and experience other cultures, sample foods and view crafts from around the world.  


    If you plan to graduate in May 2009, be sure to file your petition for graduation before Friday, September 26, 2008.



    Play it safe.  If you plan on dropping your class, have your professor sign the drop card and turn it in immediately. If you receive financial aid and drop a class you must inform that office as well as the admission and records office.  This will save you the headache of having to pay back money if you are disbursed too much.


    The refund deadline for the Spartan Bookstore is September 8, with proof of purchase and proof that you dropped the class. Note: Refunds are given only within one week of the purchase date on the receipt.  

    If you can’t log into surf and need help, contact the Student Help Desk at (760) 795-6655.

    Are you a member of myspace.com or facebook.com?  If so, join MiraCosta friends to stay updated on upcoming college arts and events.

    If you have a disability or perhaps you are not a good note-taker and need assistance, contact the Disabled Student Program and Services at (760) 795-6658.


      Get involved with helping the community by participating in the Service Learning Program.

    Please feel free to post any questions or comments.  

    One final word of advice--don’t be like I was always rushing to class only to find no close parking space. Arrive early as possible--take it from me!