July 11, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- What do you need when you want to shift careers after 18 years in the workforce? You need an understanding employer – and a college program that quickly gets you into career No. 2. Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful. Bryan Earvin liked working at Spectrum Health, but he was interested in radiologic technology, a field that encompasses X-rays, cardiac catheterization, CT scans and MRIs. He found the program he was looking for at GRCC. “The Rad Tech (Radiologic Technology) program at GRCC taught me everything and more to prepare me for this career,” he said. “The program splits both in classwork with working as an intern at hospitals so you can quickly apply what you have learned.” He landed a job mere months after his 2014 graduation: at Spectrum Health. Earvin, who recently moved from Butterworth Hospital to Blodgett, said many things had to all work together for him to make the career shift. “I did not get to where I am today without the blessings of my Lord Jesus Christ, a supportive family that kept things going while I worked full time and went full time through the program, and a very flexible Health Information Management Department at Spectrum Health to allow me to be in classes and clinics while still fulfilling my obligation to them,” he said. “GRCC is a great place to start when you have a vision in your mind about what you want to do.” Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at  grcc.edu/apply .

July 8, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Dr. Daniel Groh is sharing his love for science in chemistry classrooms at GRCC. “My desire to teach started with me tutoring students and teaching labs in college. I have never looked back!” Groh said. Dr. Groh attended Grand Valley State University, earning a bachelor’s in both chemistry and physics in 1998. He went to graduate school at Michigan State University to study nuclear chemistry and earned a doctorate in 2002.   Dr. Groh taught full time at GVSU before teaching chemistry full time at GRCC.  “The strengths of GRCC’s physics program are its academic standards, flexibility and support for students,” he said.   High academic standards, flexibility and student support in the past meant using technology and experiments to push the boundaries of conventional teaching and learning in the classroom. Now, as we are adjusting to life after the last two years of the pandemic, it also means using technology for dynamic course delivery and connecting with students in an entirely new way.  “Of course I prefer to have students in the classroom,” he said. “But the instant access students get through Zoom meetings is great - a student struggling with a problem can get to a Zoom meeting with me in minutes and we can work it out together.” You can catch Dr. Groh’s contagious enthusiasm for science in  CHM 130 General Chemistry 1, CHM 131 General Chemistry 1 Lab, CHM 140 General Chemistry 2, CHM 141 General Chemistry 2 Lab, CHM 110 Introductory Chemistry Lab, and CHM 210 Lab General, Organic and Biochemistry Lab.  

July 6, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The transformation of a shuttered JCPenney department store into the vibrant learning hub that is the GRCC Lakeshore Campus is being highlighted in a national publication for building design. Architect, the journal of the American Institute for Architects, salutes GMB Architecture + Engineering, which designed the project, and The Christman Co., which directed construction. The Grand Rapids Community College Facilities team, directed by Jim Van Dokkumburg, oversaw the transformation. The Washington-based AIA is the leading professional organization for architects and design professionals. “The new GRCC Lakeshore campus creates new identity, access, and integration for the full range of its academic programs. It does so with the sustainable and affordable reuse of existing retail space. It leverages the remaining retail of the mall as its 'third space' neighbors, giving students a robust atmosphere for fun and continued engagement. And it renews the role of the mall as a truly active, mixed-use anchor in the Holland Lakeshore community,” the journal reads. The 52,000-square-foot GRCC Lakeshore Campus opened in August 2021 in the Shops at Westshore Mall, 12335 James St. in Holland. The facility has nine classrooms, four computer labs and five unique labs for biology, chemistry, electronics, automation, welding and machine tooling, housing programs for students working toward an associate degree or a career-focused certificate. The building also has spaces for advising and counseling and other student support services and a satellite library, as well as areas for use by community groups. “The vast interior space was not only converted into labs and classrooms, but the exterior of the building was completely transformed by carving away exterior brick to allow for natural daylight to enter the vast space, establishing a modern, welcoming presence while saving as much of the existing building shell as possible to keep the project in budget. Additionally, the building will be LEED certified as part of GRCC’s sustainability goals.” The project earlier in the year was named an “Outstanding Project” in the Community College Renovation/Adaptive Reuse/Restoration category by Learning by Design magazine. Learning by Design showcases the best in the education design and construction market, recognizing innovative pre-K to 12 schools and cutting-edge colleges and universities. Information about the classes offered at the GRCC Lakeshore Campus and enrollment is available at grcc.edu/lakeshore-campus

July 6, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Like so many, Caylee VanDenToorn thought she knew what she wanted to do for her career. She started her education in culinary arts but soon realized that it was not for her. “As a kid, I was always into science and math,” she said. “I was never really quick at it but I did well. In school, I kind of did what my friends were doing so I didn’t take advantage of some classes that may have steered me in this direction. Once I started doing things for myself and making my own decisions, that was a total game changer.” VanDenToorn had been working in a label dispensing company since high school. “I learned a lot at that job. I took advantage of the opportunities to learn more about manufacturing until I figured out what I wanted to do for my career.” A coworker branched off and started his own business doing CNC machining. VanDenToorn saw what he was doing and that sparked her interest. Before that, she had no idea what a CNC machine was but once she saw what it does and how it works, she knew it was what she wanted to do.   “Finally, I figured out what I wanted to do that fit my interests in science and math,” she said. “In machining you learn about materials, measurements, and how it all comes to together. All of this experience just naturally grew into machining.” A machinist or CNC technician shapes metal and various materials to precise dimensions for parts by using machine tools. MT/CNC technicians plan and set up the sequence of machine operations in accordance with blueprints, layouts or other instructions to write both manual and computer-generated machine programs. “I started taking credit classes in manufacturing when I saw the group from the Job Training CNC Machine program in the lab. It was during the COVID pandemic and I just wanted to get through it quickly, so I enrolled in the Job Training program. Now I have my Job Training certificate and soon I will have my associate in manufacturing too.” “The best thing that I got out of the Job Training program was that it really boosted my confidence! It forces you to work with others. You work together and problem solve. It sticks in your head a lot better than when you have to figure it out yourself.” The GRCC Job Training CNC Machine Tool program meets 18-weeks for 34 hours per week. The program offers small class sizes, hands-on learning and job placement assistance. The Machine Tool/CNC program has recently been updated to better meet the industry needs. Skills taught in the program include blueprint reading, basic shop math, read measurement tools and how to communicate effectively with others using today's Machine Tool/CNC terminology. “At GRCC it’s more focused on hands-on learning. Even in the business and art history, there were aspects that incorporated hands-on activities. I really liked that my teachers worked in the real world. It was great to hear about real world experiences. GRCC made my experience more personal and less stressful. Both delivery methods were beneficial for sure!” VanDenToorn now works in a two-person shop with multiple machines. “The thing I like best about working here is that I get to do everything. I love the variety,” she said. The next section of Job Training programs begins Aug. 8, 2022.

July 4, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The journey of Hector Ortega and Loyda Cruz has been a long one, taking them from Cuba to the United States and, eventually, GRCC. It has been filled with love – for each other and for learning – and it has been marked by persistence and dedication. It’s not over yet. But after their June graduation from GRCC’s Computer Support Specialist program, both Hector and Loyda are as confident about the next steps on their journey as they ever have been. They have been married for almost six years and met in their native Cuba as university students, both studying computer science. After finishing their studies, they had the opportunity to come to the United States permanently.  “When we moved from Cuba to the United States, we had to face many new challenges and the main one was the language,” recalled Hector. “That's how we started our adventure at GRCC, taking English as a Second Language classes.” Hector remembered at first being “horrified at introducing myself in English in front of my classmates,” but soon, he added, he had progressed to being able to speak quite fluently. He added, with a smile: “This made me fall in love with GRCC. Then, my wife and I, browsing the GRCC website, discovered the Computer Support program. We both liked what the program would offer us, and we felt that it was just what we needed.” Loyda said their hopes for the program were very much fulfilled. “GRCC is a college with great opportunities for all kinds of people,” she said. “It has a large faculty of well-prepared professors who want students to learn correctly and efficiently. As an immigrant, I can only say that GRCC is the place that has opened doors for me in this country.” Both students said they appreciated the Computer Support Specialist program’s emphasis on real-world skills. “When I studied Computer Science in Cuba, the studies were mostly focused on mathematics, programming and everything related to software,” Loyda said. “I always wanted to learn and obtain skills that would help me solve problems related to different devices and that also involve the physical part or hardware. This program helped me a lot to learn how to identify and solve problems related to software, hardware, security and networks.” Both used financial support programs to make their dreams a reality with Loyda taking advantage of the Michigan Reconnect scholarship and Hector part of the Futures for Frontliners program.  Michigan Reconnect is a state program covering the cost of in-district tuition for people age 25 and older without a college degree. Additional information is at grcc.edu/reconnect . Futures for Frontliners was a similar program for people who worked in essential fields during the state's shutdown. They said those programs made possible what otherwise might have been impossible. And they praised the fast-track nature of the GRCC certificate program, which they said packs a lot of learning into just 18 weeks but allows graduates to quickly jump into the job market and do well. “When we arrived in the United States, without previous work experience, we always thought about the possibility of studying something shorter in this country, but related to our previous knowledge,” Loyda said. “The GRCC program linked all the studying we did previously (in Cuba) and now is opening doors here in the United States.” Hector said the same. “What I liked most about this program is that it not only taught me the technical aspects, but also taught me how to apply for positions that I like, increasing the possibility of being accepted,” he said. “I rediscovered myself as a professional and stopped saying ‘no’ to myself.” And, thanks to GRCC, companies are also saying “yes.” “In the same week as our graduation ceremony, I received the news that I was accepted to work in IT at Amway,” Hector said. “So, we were celebrating our graduation, our wedding anniversary, my new job and the high hope that Loyda can also get a position in the field.” After what the couple has already overcome, don’t bet against her. Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply . This story was reported by Phil de Haan, and photographed by Andrew Schmidt.    

July 2, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. –   Lyn Jansen has been leveraging her 15 years of clinical experience to teach students at GRCC working to earn their two-year occupational therapy assistant degree. Occupational therapy assistants help patients recover. Under the supervision of registered occupational therapists, they help patients with physical or mental challenges by developing and carrying out programs that include educational, vocational and recreational activities. Jansen specializes in work hardening, hand therapy, adult disabilities and rehabilitation, kinesiology, functional capacity evaluation, upper extremity injury, job analysis and injury prevention, transitional living for traumatic brain injury and home health.  And she teaches these skills as an adjunct faculty member and faculty advisor to the OTA club. “I love being able to help students achieve their academic and career goals,” Jansen said. “The GRCC OTA program is operated by an extremely connected, committed and supportive faculty. Support from GRCC administration also allows the program to flourish. We are able to be creative in ways that we see best to help students succeed. And they do!” Jansen has noticed that through the pandemic, having more grace toward each other in difficult situations has also helped students succeed. “This doesn't mean that standards or expectations have changed, but rather there's a slightly different perspective of patience and understanding going in both directions,” Jansen said. This insight comes with the learning and practice that Jansen has done over her clinical and teaching career.  “I've observed throughout my life people who display qualities that I appreciate and strive to manifest in myself,” Jansen said. This skill has suited Jansen as her career evolved. “I didn't begin my OT career with an intention to teach,” Jansen said. “But as a clinician I accepted GRCC fieldwork students and eventually found a good fit in teaching these students within their academic college program as well as in my OT work setting.” Now Jansen is focused on her journey as a practitioner and a teacher. She is certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and is licensed to practice in Michigan. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy and a Master’s in Adult Education.  “I maintain and enhance my treatment skills through continuing education in the areas of shoulder, wrist and hand injury treatment, injury prevention management, ergonomics, and treatment of traumatic brain injury, CVA, and handwriting dysfunction,” Jansen said.

July 1, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. –   Don’t fear the FAFSA! Grand Rapids Community College has resources available to help students complete the federal form for financial aid and potentially help them access programs and grants to help pay for a college education. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA, is required for students to receive financial support through federal grants, programs such as Michigan Reconnect and the Grand Rapids Promise Zone, and scholarships through the GRCC Foundation. The college has a FAFSA Hotline – (616) 234-4030 – with specialists available to answer questions about the form. Students also can make appointments to connect with specialists in person, virtually or over the phone at grcc.edu/financialaid . Specialists can be reached via email at  financialaid@grcc.edu . “The FAFSA application can unlock many opportunities for students to reduce, or even potentially eliminate, college costs,” said David DeBoer, GRCC’s executive director of Financial Aid. “We don’t want anyone to miss out on a GRCC education that can change their lives. It might seem complicated, but our team is trained to assist you. We are here to help!” FAFSA is an online form that requires financial and tax information for students and parents, if the students are dependents. GRCC has a series of helpful videos available on YouTube’s GRCCtv .  The FAFSA can be completed, typically in under an hour, at fafsa.gov using a computer or tablet.  The U.S. Education Department’s Office of Federal Student Aid also has information for students and families available at StudentAid.gov. The Grand Rapids Community College Foundation also requires a FAFSA for students applying for scholarships. The foundation awarded $1.4 million in scholarships to GRCC students last year. Information and universal scholarship applications are available at grcc.edu/scholarships. “We don’t want financial obstacles to stand in the way of someone starting or restarting a college education that can change lives,” said Dr. Kathryn K. Mullins, vice president for Advancement and executive director of the GRCC Foundation. “The FAFSA is the first step on that journey. Our team will not only help you get started, but will be with you every step of the way.”  

June 29, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – More than 900 students have been invited to attend Grand Rapids Community College during the 2022-2023 academic year with financial support from the Grand Rapids Promise Zone. This year, more than 500 students attended GRCC using the Promise Zone scholarship, which removes cost as a barrier to a quality college education for eligible students. “The Grand Rapids Promise Zone is about access and opportunity, and an indication of this community’s commitment to helping everyone get the education they need to be successful,” said Ashlee Mishler, Promise Zone director. “This is an opportunity for students to start their educational journey at GRCC, earning credits or career skill certificates -- for free -- close to home.”   The Promise Zone scholarship is available for students who live within Grand Rapids and graduate from one of the 25 public, public charter, or private high schools located within the city limits. The program covers the cost of tuition, fees, books and required course materials for GRCC’s associate degree and job training and certification programs. The Promise Zone scholarship is a “last dollar” scholarship. Students must complete the FAFSA -- Free Application for Federal Student Aid -- to determine available need-based aid. Once the total need-based aid has been determined, the scholarship covers the remaining costs. Students are eligible to receive the full Grand Rapids Promise Zone Scholarship (60 credit hours) if: They attend an eligible Grand Rapids high school continuously since the beginning of 10th grade or before; They live in the city of Grand Rapids boundaries continuously since the beginning of 10th grade or before; and They graduate from any of the 25 public, public charter, or private high schools located within the city. Students who have been enrolled at an eligible high school and who have resided in Grand Rapids continuously since the start of 11th grade are eligible for a partial scholarship, covering up to 30 credit hours at GRCC. Eligible students have five years to access these funds from the time they graduate high school. Once enrolled, they must take at least six credits in the fall and winter semesters. Students who opt to attend a different college or university can still use the Promise Zone scholarship as a GRCC guest student during the summer semesters. The scholarships were created in 2020 by the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority, a group of city and community leaders and educators. Additional information is available at grcc.edu/promisezone and grpromisezone.com, through email at promisezone@grcc.edu and by calling (616) 234-4321.  

June 28, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Ryan Dykstra is following a fantastic season on Grand Rapids Community College’s baseball team by taking his game to the next level, playing for the Kalamazoo Growlers of the Northwoods League. The Northwoods League is a developmental league for elite college players, with players using wood bats instead of the metal bats used at the college level. That hasn’t deterred the 6-foot, 210-pound outfielder from Byron Center. Through Sunday, Dykstra has played in 25 games, batting .292, and leading the team in hits and is second with 20 RBI. He recently earned a promotion: a contract to play for the entire season. “I’m glad to get it,” he said of the contract extension. “I didn’t know what to expect. But being here, I’m glad to be extended and to keep doing this thing.” The 22-team league has existed for 27 seasons. More than 250 Northwoods League players have advanced to Major League Baseball, including former Detroit Tigers Curtis Granderson and Max Scherzer and New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso. Because Northwoods is an amateur league, players are not paid, allowing them to maintain their college eligibility. League teams play 72 games from late May until mid-August. Most live with host families during the season to keep expenses to a minimum. The Growlers have players from across the country, and they attend colleges including Duke, University of Miami, Ohio State University, and the University of Tennessee. Dykstra has committed to playing at Oakland University next season and looks forward to entering teaching or business after graduating. Fred Brown, GRCC assistant baseball coach, is the Growler’s hitting coach and recommended Dykstra for the team after a stellar GRCC season. Dykstra’s .422 batting average led the Raiders, and he also had the most runs, hits, doubles, home runs, and runs batted in. That performance earned him four postseason honors from the Michigan Community College Athletic Association. He was named All-Region, All-MCCAA and First Team All-Conference. He also was named to the All-Tournament team at the regionals after batting .588 in five games. Dykstra played baseball, football and basketball at South Christian High School, and GRCC head baseball coach Mike Eddington said Dykstra’s decision to focus on baseball helped improve his game. “What I like about Ryan’s background is that he was a very good three-sport athlete, and he had a big upside once he focused on baseball,” Eddington said. “Ryan is passionate about being good, and he loves baseball. Playing for the Growlers this summer will prepare Ryan for Division 1 baseball.” Dykstra was able to play before the hometown crowd last week, when the Growlers bested the Traverse City Pit Spitters 7-4 at LMCU Ballpark, home of the West Michigan Whitecaps. He had three hits in five at-bats, driving in a run.