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. 

Do you...

  Need to transfer credits to JJC that you've already earned at another school? 
  Want to switch colleges and start taking classes at JJC?
  Need to transfer courses you took from the military to JJC?
  Want to transfer credits from classes you took at another college 5-10+ years ago to JJC?

If you can answer yes to any of these questions, there's a few things you'll need to do. Here's how you can get started:

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! 

Are you creative? Love do-it-yourself (DIY) crafts? Want to stay occupied before classes begin in just a few short weeks? Look no further than this blog, where we list seven DIY projects that will get you ready for fall semester! 

JJC fall classes begin Monday, Aug. 20. Haven't had the chance to apply? There's still time! Visit jjc.edu/apply.

What is Career-Based Education?
JJC, other community colleges and trade schools offer a number of degrees, certificates and programs that are considered career-based education (or just "career education"). What do these programs have in common? They all aim to get students into the workforce immediately after they graduate. Many of these programs are technical-focused, like automotive service technology or welding, but many are not, like diagnostic medical sonography or radiologic technology. 

Why Career-Based Education is Thriving
It's no secret that career-based education is thriving. Many of the career paths you can study for are in need of more employees (in part due to a retiring workforce for some fields). Several industries pay their staff well and because students can get training for these jobs at community colleges and trade schools in two years or less, it's both a popular and affordable way to start a new career.

Check out our list below to see five careers you can study for at JJC, or browse our A to Z index for more career-based education fields.

Finding it hard to tolerate the summer heat? Stop by the Wolves Den Cafeteria for a refreshing treat! Whether you're at JJC for the summer semester and need a break in between classes or you're stopping by to check out the campus before you start this fall, the cafeteria is open and ready to satisfy your summer cravings.

Check out the top five tasty summer treats you can get at the cafeteria below.

Note: Wolves Den Cafeteria summer hours are Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.