Division of Student Services
Division of Student Services provides a variety of services and sponsors many activities which are designed to facilitate the personal growth and development of students and to support the instructional programs of the College.
Services and activities specifically offered for prospective and new students include admissions counseling, educational planning, placement testing, and advising.
Other student services and activities include, but are not limited to, scheduling assistance for registration, career counseling, tutorial assistance, financial aid, and intramural sports.
Offices within the Division of Student Services are: Enrollment Management, Office of Admissions, Advising Center, Records and Registration, Retention Support Services, Student Financial Aid, Testing Center, Athletics and Intramurals, Access Center (Disability Services), Student Engagement and Support, Career Services, TRIO Student Support Services, and Adult Learners & Veterans Affairs.
Admissions
Students can contact the Admissions office at admissions@volstate.edu. Admission advisors are available to assist new students with the application process. Additionally, these advisors are able to clarify information on the application, process major changes, answer any questions students might have and outline the process that leads to registration. The Office of Admissions offers campus tours for prospective students Monday through Friday at various times throughout the year. Visit volstate.edu/admissions for more information about applying to the College or to schedule a campus tour.
The Office of Advising
Students who have not declared a major or who are not seeking a degree or certificate (but wish to enroll in credit classes) are assigned to a Full-Time Advisor/Counselor or Completion Advisor in the Office of Advising for advising assistance. Students who have declared a major are assigned to a faculty advisor, Advisor/Counselor, or Completion Advisor. The Office of Advising also screens all transfer and transient students to be sure that required Learning Support assessment occurs and then modifies computer screens to allow enrollment. Students should make an appointment to meet with their assigned advisor every semester before registering. An advisor can:
- Answer questions about a student’s selected degree program
- Confirm that students are taking classes in the right sequence per their degree program
- Provide general information about the College and its programs
- Explain placement assessment results
- Guide students through the registration process
- Assist with creating a class schedule
- Help students clarify their academic and/or career goals
- Provide students with specific information regarding transfer of courses to other colleges and universities
- Assist in explaining an audit of a student’s degree program requirements
The Office of Advising serves students both on campus and virtually. The normal operating hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. There are times during the year, however, when The Office of Advising is open extended hours. Please check the website for current information related to the extended hours schedule.
Students can make an appointment with an academic advisor online at volstate.edu/appointments. They also can walk in to the Office of Advising to make an appointment or call (615) 230-3702. Assistance and information may also be requested by FAX at (615) 230-3692 or by e-mail at Advising@volstate.edu.
The Office of Advising is also responsible for making all advisor assignments. If students would like to be assigned to a new advisor, they should make that request by contacting the Office of Advising.
Academic Counseling and Career Guidance - Academic counseling consists of assisting students with curriculum choice, educational planning, and accomplishment of academic goals. Advisor/Counselors and Completion Advisors use necessary intervention strategies to assist students in overcoming difficulties that would hinder performance. Academic counseling guides students through an exploration of career and academic choices, assists with establishing life goals, and in developing personal plans to achieve educational goals.
Advisor/Counselors and Completion Advisors provide academic counseling for students who are having difficulty with their courses. While many students are referred to the Office of Advising by their instructors, Advisor/Counselors and Completion Advisors will assist any student who is in need of academic counseling. Students may speak with an Advisor/Counselor or Completion Advisor either by appointment or on a walk-in basis.
The Office of Advising can also assist students who are in need of career guidance. Students will meet with an Advisor/Counselor or Completion Advisor who can assist with the development of a plan to determine what career path is best suited for them. After meeting with an Advisor/Counselor or Completion Advisor, students can take a career assessment. These assessments include the Strong Interest Inventory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. In addition, students can complete an internet-based assessment called TypeFocus. After completing a career assessment, students should make an appointment to meet with an Advisor/Counselor or Completion Advisor who will interpret and discuss the results with them.
Other Counseling Services - The Office of Advising does not have a licensed counselor on staff. Thus, it is not equipped to handle serious personal counseling matters. However, Advisor/Counselors and Completion Advisors can provide immediate, short-term assistance and will then refer students to an appropriate agency or licensed professional.
Athletics
The intercollegiate athletic program includes men’s and women’s basketball teams, a men’s baseball team, and women’s softball. These teams compete with teams from other institutions of the same intercollegiate level as Volunteer State Community College. Athletes must meet the eligibility requirements of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Tennessee Community College Athletic Association.
Access Center
The primary goal of the Access Center is to promote full access and participation of students with disabilities in all programs, activities and facilities of Volunteer State Community College. Access Center staff help students participate more fully in educational programming, benefit from an accessible environment, and achieve greater success by facilitating educational access. We provide information and guidance to students, evaluate student disability documentation, and determine appropriate accommodations to remove academic barriers created by an inaccessible environment. Additionally, we serve as a resource for faculty to assist them in the provision of accommodations in the classroom to remove potential barriers, and the creation of a more accessible learning environment. It is the student’s responsibility to voluntarily and confidentially disclose information regarding the nature of the disability. In order to benefit from the services provided in the Access Center, students are asked to:
- Complete an Access Center application at www.volstate.edu/access
- Provide/upload professional documentation of a disability
- Assist in identifying the academic barriers encountered
- Follow through with each step of the accommodation process
Auxiliary aids, services and accommodations are provided on an individual basis taking into consideration the nature of the student’s disability and functional limitations, as well as the specific barriers encountered in each class. As appropriate, services may include sign-language interpreters, alternate-format textbooks, note taking support, alternative testing, and access to adaptive software and equipment needed to ensure equal educational opportunity. While the College provides academic aids deemed necessary for a student’s educational access, it does not provide personal aids and services such as attendant care or individually prescribed devices for personal use or study.
Records and Registration
The staff in Records & Registration is available to help students with sending transcripts, dropping and adding courses past the drop/add period, withdrawals, registration errors, grade appeal forms and questions, enrollment verification, transcript evaluation and awarding of external credit, Fresh Start, the graduation process upon receipt of application and guiding them through the process, and changes to a student’s record (such as address or telephone number). For more information about the Office of Records & Registration and the privacy act which governs the records held at our institution, please see Student Records and Academic Regulations.
Student Engagement and Support
Office of Student Engagement and Support is responsible for engaging and supporting students as they navigate their higher education experience academically, socially, and personally. The Office is primarily responsible for the following areas: Student Support and Prevention Initiatives, Student Leadership, Student Activities, and the Student Government Association. Student success through co-curricular engagement and leadership is an important focus of this office; collaborating with faculty and staff to promote a more well-rounded student is also a very integral focus. A main objective of this office is to expand and improve existing programming as well as build new programming and services that will enhance student success. The Office of Student Engagement and Support has a call center. The center serves in the role of welcoming students to the College as well as disseminating important information and reminders to students via all communication platforms.
Testing Services
Testing services are provided by the College through the Testing Centers at all Vol State campuses in Gallatin, Cookeville, Livingston, and Springfield. Testing Services include placement tests for admission to Vol State, including English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL); foreign language placement tests in French and Spanish; the TEAS preadmission test for Nursing; graduation exit exams; and faculty exams for Vol State and TN eCampus courses. The Testing Centers also provide remote proctoring services for students enrolled at other colleges and universities, as well as for the ACT National, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), Microsoft certification exams, and Business and Industry Certification and Licensure exams. All testing is by appointment only, via the Testing Center’s website.
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)
The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program at Volunteer State Community College is a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of Education. The main objective of this program is to provide eligible Vol State students increased educational opportunities that promote academic success. The overall goal is to support students through educational and retention strategies that lead to graduation and/or transfer to a four-year institution. In order to participate, students must meet one or more of the following U.S. Department of Education requirements:
- Low-Income: Pell Grant Eligible
- First Generation: Neither parent has earned a four-year college degree
- Disability: Registered with the Vol State Access Center
TRIO SSS offers academic advising, graduation planning, career counseling, priority registration, financial literacy, tutoring, mentoring, goal setting, four-year transfer assistance, and technology access. The program also provides educational trips include four-year college tours and cultural activities. Students may apply online at www.volstate.edu/trio.
Office of Adult Learners and Veterans Affairs
The mission of the Office of Adult Learners and Veterans Affairs (ALVA) is to serve the specific needs of adult learners, veterans, and active-duty military and their dependents and assist them with reaching their professional, personal, and/or lifelong learning goals. This is done by fostering positive relationships, providing excellent customer service, and delivering support services such as advisement, goal setting, and motivation to guide these special student populations to attaining their desired results.
The office assists two special student populations (Adult Learners and Military-Affiliated Students) who are attending or preparing to attend VSCC by supporting their college success. Students are assisted with finding resolutions to challenges and needs which may arise while accomplishing their college goals. Assistance may be provided with guidance on the admissions process, academic advising, career guidance, TN Reconnect information and recruitment, veteran education benefits, community-based agency options/requirements, and basic college processes.
Vol State is an approved institution of higher learning for students who receive Veterans Affairs (VA), Department of Defense (DoD), or Federal and State Tuition Assistance (TA) education benefits. The Office of ALVA has the responsibility of assisting these students with their benefits and also provide additional information about military training credits.
The Office of ALVA is the location where veterans, military affiliated students, and their dependents are provided information and assistance with applying for and processing benefits, education requirements, establishing career goals, making life/career choices, and assistance with resources for veteran unique challenges as they transition to college. The office is responsible for the college meeting the institutional requirements of being an approved campus such as ensuring that students receiving veteran education benefits are enrolled in a degree/certificate program and only register for courses in their specific program that they want the benefits to pay for. As an added benefit, the Vol State Veterans Center is housed within this office. Students can utilize the space for studying, accessing available computers, building camaraderie with other VA Students who have had similar experiences, or just take a break and have snacks that are donated by the Associates of Vietnam Veterans.
Community Based State and Federal Financial Programs
The Office of Adult Learners and Veterans Affairs coordinates services for eligible degree-seeking and technical certificate students by working with local, state, and federal agencies to assist them with receiving financial assistance for job retraining, and employment programs. Community-based state agencies, such as American Job Centers and the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency, offer financial assistance through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), SNAP E&T (Education and Training), or Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA). These agencies may sponsor students enrolled in qualifying VSCC degree or technical certificate programs by providing financial assistance for tuition costs, books, training materials, supplies, travel costs, and/or other wraparound assistance. Student qualification for these programs is determined by the affiliated community-based agency and program criteria. Qualification may be based on various criteria including income eligibility and employment barriers such as being laid-off from a job or needing to improve job skills through retraining or other approved eligibility requirements.
Student Conduct and Discipline
The College aims to maintain an environment of integrity, civility, and safety. The expectation is that students behave appropriately, emphasizing self-respect and respect for others. Enrollment at VSCC indicates acceptance of those standards of conduct appearing in detail in the Student Conduct and Disciplinary policy. Violations of these rules and regulations may result in disciplinary action by an administrative official or an appropriate college committee. The College recognizes each student’s rights to fair procedures and due process, including notice that specifies the alleged violation(s) of the Student Conduct and Disciplinary policy, an opportunity to respond to the allegations, and an appeal process appropriate to the nature and potential consequences of the violation.
Intramural Sports & Cheerleading
Intramurals
The goals of the intramural sports program are to provide facilities, funds and programs to encourage the voluntary participation of men and women at various levels of ability in structured seasonal sports which build a sense of community. Additional information can be obtained through the Athletics department.
Cheerleading
Cheerleaders provide support to the athletic programs at Vol State and raises the level of fan engagement and excitement for Vol State teams. Please contact the Athletic Department for additional information.
Student Clubs/Organizations
Student organizations and activities provide ample opportunities for students enrolled in for-credit courses to participate in and promote their educational, personal and social development.
Students who participate in clubs/organizations on campus will
- Develop on-the-job-skills such as fiscal management/budgeting, record keeping, and event planning.
- Identify skills on how to collaborate with others and work in a team atmosphere.
- Recognize professionalism through personal accountability such as time management, attitude, and work ethic.
The rules governing student organizations are found in the current Vol State Student Handbook. The College provides budgetary support for the following student organizations and activities:
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association (SGA) was established to provide leadership training in an environment which permits the exploration of a wide array of ideas. This avenue, through which student interests and needs may be expressed, provides students the opportunity to work with College Administrative Officers in matters affecting the welfare of the student body. The SGA works with all student organizations to maintain and improve the quality of student life on- and off-campus. In addition, the Livingston Campus, Highland Crest Campus, and Cookeville Campus have SGA positions available called the SGA Regent. Students are encouraged to participate in the campus-wide Student Forums held each Fall and Spring semester.
Students filling the SGA Executive Cabinet are elected and/or interviewed during the Spring term. All registered full-time and part-time students of Volunteer State possessing a G.E.D. score of 45 or a cumulative high school or Collegiate G.P.A. of 2.75 are eligible to apply for the Office of President, Vice President, Secretary of State, Secretary of Treasury, CAB Chair, Attorney General, and Senior Senator. Additional information may be obtained through the Office of Student Engagement & Support.
Campus Activity Board (CAB)
The purpose of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) is to develop and offer a variety of social, cultural, educational and recreational programs for all members of the College community. Any students currently enrolled in for-credit courses interested in the planning, production and promotion of activities should contact the Coordinator of Student Activities. The CAB Chair, CAB Representative, and CAB Marketing Representative are selected through an interview process by the Coordinator of Student Activities with approval of the Manager of Student Engagement and Support.
Fit Club
The Fit Club will work as an accountability partnership to help members stay motivated, provide free workout opportunities and nutrition information.
National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS)
NSLS promotes student leadership enhancement, while encouraging attainment of personal and educational goals. The society offers leadership training, SMART goal instruction, and guidance on how to succeed and balance school, work, and life in general. Students join by invitation only with the requirement of a minimum GPA of 2.5 and six college credits. Members who finish all steps (attending one orientation, one leadership training day, three speaker broadcasts, and submitting three SNT goals) receive a certificate of completion and become an inducted member of NSLS. The organization is active at the Gallatin and Cookeville campuses.
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK)
The international Honor Society for two-year colleges was established in 1918 to recognize academic excellence. This organization, which awards $28 million nationwide in transfer scholarships to active members annually, was chartered on campus in March 1998. While participation in chapter activities is not required, the organization offers opportunities for community service and personal development. Those students who have earned 12 collegiate hours, have a minimum GPA of 3.5, and are working toward an associate degree are invited by invitation to join each Fall and Spring semester.
Dental Assistants
The Dental Assistants serve as a public relations group for the Dental Assistants in the Middle Tennessee area. The club participates in social activities and educational seminars with the First District Dental Assistants Association. Students must by in the Dental Assistants Program to be a member.
Future Educators Club
A group of students who are interested in education, specifically becoming educators in the future. Through this club, we hope to make changes in children’s lives and encourage other future educators to get more involved in their local schools and communities.
The Settler
The Settler, the campus student newspaper, is published virtually each week. It is produced exclusively by students for the campus community. The Editor is selected by the advisor and the Coordinator of Student Activities with approval of the Vice-President for Student Services.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians’ in America (NAVTA)
NAVTA promotes the Vet Tech club and exposes the students to more educational opportunities, as well as, the humane medical care and treatment of animals. Students must be in the Vet Tech Program to be a member.
Returning Student Organization (RSO)
RSO provides an opportunity for support, information, and personal growth for any student who has returned to school after several years of absence. RSO helps connect new and current students to available resources to connect with each other, as well as, find resources and familiarize students with the Vol State campus and facilities to improve their college experience.
The Green Team
This organization was established to implement eco-friendly sustainable projects at Vol State Cookeville Higher Education Campus.
The Vol State Cybersecurity Club
The Vol State Cybersecurity Club hopes to bring an awareness of the opportunities in cybersecurity and expand the knowledge of students in the cybersecurity field via meetings, workshops, and other related events. Students enrolled in the Cybersecurity program are encouraged to participate.
Vol State Veteran’s Association (VSVA)
VSVA provides military veterans with resources, support and advocacy needed to succeed in higher education and post-graduation. The organization offers camaraderie and networking among Vol State student veterans and their dependents. VSVA is active at the Gallatin and Cookeville campuses.
Volunteer Club
Service Learning provides support toward best practices for service-learning programs on campus. The club strives to identify and address the needs of the community within the service area.
All student organizations at Volunteer State are subject to Chapter 0240-2-4 of the State Board of Regents Rules promulgated pursuant to the Tennessee Uniform Administrative Procedures Act. Additionally, all student leadership position, from special interest organizations to the Student Government Association, are held to the criteria of Vol State Policy III: 11:03 qualifying for Student Title/Office:
Purpose
Volunteer State Community College expects academic excellence from all students who hold elected positions or titles of leadership in student organizations or activities. This policy establishes minimal academic and citizenship qualifications for those who seek student leadership roles.
Qualifications for Student Government Association (SGA) Leaders
Any full-time or part-time student currently enrolled in for-credit courses may qualify to run for office or honorary title if the following conditions are met: 1. Has a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or above at Volunteer State Community College 2. Is a responsible member of the campus community who abides by institutional rules and regulations and by the laws of local, state and national governments 3. Does not have any misconduct open cases and does not show up with routine class ALERTS (missing classes, missing assignments, failed tests, etc.) Submits a “Qualifying Petition” with the endorsement of thirty (30) fellow students (applicable for SGA President & Vice President Only)
Exceptions
A first term student who wishes to qualify to run for SGA office or honorary title must have a high school or transfer cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or above and meet all other qualifying conditions for student leaders.
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