Introduction:
Spring 2011 is my second semester here at Truckee Meadows Community College. I am majoring in Computer Science and hope to graduate with my Associates Degree in Fall 2012. Truckee Meadows Community College is a fairly large college for a 2 year college. It has 5 campuses around the greater Reno-Sparks area.
Admissions
My adimissions process at TMCC was very easy. I applied to the college online. After I was accepted, I had to go to the campus and take a placement test, get an orientation, and an academic advisement session. These things are typical of what most community colleges require before registering for classes. Registering for classes was very easy as well. All of the registration process is online. I have heard from my friends at other community colleges that admission and registration is a hassle, but it wasn’t for me at TMCC. From what I’ve heard, TMCC is also very early when it comes to registering for classes. This is a big positive because so many students have to rush to try and figure out what classes they want to take. It isn’t like that at TMCC because the school gives you so much time before classes actually start to register.
Financial Aid
I think TMCC has a great financial aid department. They process applications fast and have a TMCC scholarship application that applies to many different awards. Also, the processing of federal financial aid is much faster at TMCC then most community colleges in California, where I grew up. My friends that attend those colleges have to wait until after school starts to receive their financial aid. At TMCC, we get our financial aid about a week or so before classes begin.
Classes & Instructors
I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy all of the classes I have taken/am taking as well as every instructor. The instructors are very helpful and nice compared to a normal high school like the one I went to. I have taken many different course such as: Computer Programming, a Linux class, Engineering Design, various Math and English classes, as well as some general education.
Social Activities
I think that this is one of the things that makes community colleges a less-lucrative option than a four year university. At my college, everybody just goes to class and leaves when they get done. There isn’t much interaction outside of class between students, unless they already knew each other before college. Also, my college had no athletic programs, so that is another downfal of Truckee Meadows Community College.
Studying & Exams
Studying for exams such as mid terms and finals is pretty hard. It was my first semester and I was taking 16 credits. 10 of those 16 credits were not general education. Studying for that semester’s mid terms and finals was grueling to say the least. However, I worked hard and received a 4.0 that semester and I am working towards another one this semester.
