JJC Blog

Financial aid is a necessity for the more than 70 percent of college students that apply for the FAFSA each year. Below, we break down some facts and stats about the FAFSA (and other types of aid) that might enlighten you as you embark on your financial aid journey this October. 

Did you know that 85 percent of college students reported feeling overwhelmed in 2015? On top of that, about 40 million adults suffer from some type of anxiety disorder, with 75 percent experiencing their first symptoms by age 22.

It's no secret that college students have a lot on their plate. If you ever find yourself stressed, anxious or depressed, JJC is here to help. Take a look at the tips we've listed below and consider attending one of our wellness workshops this fall. 

How well do you know JJC's campus? Put your knowledge to the test below! See if you can guess where these close-up (or strategically cropped) pictures are located. Answers are revealed at the bottom.

Have fun!   

Did you know that JJC has its very own nature trails? Students and community members alike can explore the paths that make up our backyard, which include both paved and unpaved trails. Learn more or see a map at jjc.edu/trails.

Ready to enjoy the fresh air? See if you can spot these five things on our nature trails, outlined below - and check out our video at the end of this post!

Take part in JJC's scavenger hunt and you could win a fleece jacket just in time for fall!

JJC Scavenger Hunt

To enter: Take your photos according to the challenges below, then post them and tag @Joliet Junior College on Facebook or @JolietJrCollege on Instagram. Deadline: Friday, Oct. 5.

Prize: A JJC fleece jacket, plus a few other JJC goodies!

RULES:

• One photo equals one entry. 
• You can only enter each challenge once.
• Post these photos all at once, individually, or on separate days - whatever is easier for you!
• If you don't tag JJC on Facebook or Instagram, your entry won't count.
  • Follow JJC on Facebook (@Joliet Junior College)
  • Follow JJC on Instagram (@JolietJrCollege)
• IMPORTANT: All photos must be taken between Monday, Aug. 27 - Friday, Oct. 5.

If you're new to JJC, you probably already know that we have a Tutoring and Learning Center, a Career Services Center and First Year Experience counselors to help guide you as you begin your journey here.

But did you know that if you accidentally leave your textbook at home, you can check out a copy  at the JJC Library? 

Find out more about this best kept secret and nine others below! 

What are your summer plans?

Whether you want to go on a weekend road trip, visit an amusement park or spend time reading, consider adding "take a JJC class" to this summer's bucket list. In fact, choosing to take a class this summer may be the smartest thing you do as college student. Check out why below!

JJC's Summer Sessions for 2019
Summer Session I: May 20 (six weeks)
Summer Session II: June 3 (eight weeks)
Summer Session III: July 1 (six weeks)

To register, visit MyJJC or contact the Registration Office.
Not a student yet? Visit jjc.edu/apply.

It's no secret that community colleges are affordable, offer flexibility, provide easy ways to transfer and are made up of a diverse student body, from those right out of high school to returning adults. 

But did you know that there are more than 1,460 community colleges in the United States? Illinois, California, New York, Texas and North Carolina house the most community colleges in the country. Take a look at our list below to learn even more about community colleges. 

Note: This blog references summer 2018. Please view our most recent "just-for-fun" classes blog here.

Looking for something fun to do this summer? Take a non-credit class at JJC! JJC's continuing education courses are fun and interest-based, meant more for enjoyment than a grade. These classes, which are open to both students and community members, cover a wide range of topics which include local history, cooking, music, crafts and more. They are offered every semester.

Take a look at our list of 11 "just-for-fun" summer classes below, or browse the catalog yourself at jjc.edu/class-schedule (search for "LLC - Lifelong Learning Class"). Visit jjc.edu/llc to learn more.

Are you a current or future JJC student? You're in good company! Many of our alums have accomplished great things in science, the entertainment industry and even sports. While JJC has an abundance of notable alumni (learn more about them starting on page 228 here or on page 220 here), we've chosen to highlight ten from our archives. We hope this list is just the inspiration you need!