How to Schedule Your Classes for a Successful Semester

By Sonja DuPont
Have you ever scheduled your classes for a semester and later thought “what was I thinking?” Is this your first semester and are you scratching your head, wondering “which of these classes should I sign up for?” Scheduling your classes might sound like a simple thing, but in order to have optimal results at the end of your semester with both your grades and your attitude there are questions you must ask yourself, and decisions to be made.  Here are a few steps with some advice you can take that will help you achieve a successful semester.

1. Meet with your program advisor: If this is your first semester it is wise to meet with your program advisor; they can help you get started and set you up with the right class schedule.  They can also give you advice on which classes are best to take together and which are best to take online, etc.
2. Find out what classes are required and what classes you have left to take:  Use a computer to go to www.tridenttech.edu.  The website has all the academic programs listed and which classes are required.  They also have a suggested list of which classes to take for each semester.  When you are done doing that, log onto TTC Express: once you are logged in, look to the left side and click on the Academic Profile, once there click onto Program Evaluation.  It will show you the classes left that you need to complete your program.  Once you have the list of classes that are required for your program of study and what classes are remaining, proceed on.
3. Realize not all semesters are created equal:  Summer semesters are shorter and that means more information squeezed in within a shorter time frame.  Expect to spend several more hours per week per class doing homework than either winter or spring semesters.  Class times are generally longer during the summer semester. 

Find Affordable College Textbooks

by Joe Jacinto
College textbooks are one of the biggest expenses students face each semester. The average cost of one textbook is around $175. A fulltime student has to pay almost $700 each semester just for books. Buying textbooks is even more difficult for students who do not have financial aid. Lottery Tuition does not pay toward book expenses, and while student loans are helpful, they rack up debt. Fortunately, there are ways to find affordable textbooks. Here are a few steps that may help you avoid the high cost of college textbooks:

 

 
Register: Talk to your advisor or use TTC Express

• Talk to you advisor about the courses you want to take. If you cannot meet with your advisor, you can register online at TTC Express by logging on to my.tridenttech.edu Portal.
• Once you are registered for your classes, go to Academic Profile and click on My Class Schedule. Choose the term you are registered for. This will bring up your semester courses where you will choose Click here to see All your Textbooks.
• The TTC Bookstore page will appear with a list of all your books for that semester along with each textbook price.
• It is important that you print the page or write down the title, author’s name, and price of each textbook to use for the rest of the steps below.     

Research: Know the prices of your textbooks

TTC Student Activities Announcements

STUDENT IDs  The Student ID office at Main Campus is located in Bldg. 410, Rm. 130.  Student IDs are made Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The office is closed on Friday.

SUMMER STUDENT ACTIVITY PERIODS 

The two scheduled Student Activity Periods for the summer semester are:

•  Tuesday, June 4
  10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
•  Wednesday, July 10
  11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Classes are suspended during this time so that students may attend student organization meetings.  JOIN A CLUB!

 

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE 
Give the gift of life on Wednesday, June 19 in the student lounge of Bldg. 410.  Stop by anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. and be sure to bring a picture ID.

NEED A RIDE?  Check out Share-A-Ride on my.tridenttech.edu under campus life.

Trident Technical College will operate on a compressed 40-hour week during the summer. The college will close at noon on Fridays from May 31 through August 9. All classes will meet as scheduled.

A+ paper Plan: A Simple Guide to Writing a Paper

by Krystal Chandler
       Knowing how to write a well-written paper is essential for all students at Trident Technical College, regardless of your chosen major.
       Finding a process makes the assignment less complicated.  Writing an essay or a paper is not simply the compilation of paragraphs on a single topic.  In a manner of speaking, there is a method to the madness of writing.  Finding a formula that works for you is essential in writing a good paper.  For example, a love song doesn’t just go on and on about love.  It has verses, a chorus, vamp/bridge, and a closing.  “How” the song is written on the topic of love is just as important as the words in the song. The same is true for a writing assignment. The “how” is just as important as the words.  Consider the following steps when writing a paper:

Brainstorm
Find an area that is suitable for brainstorming and begin by taking notes.  Do not allow distractions to interrupt your process or cause a writer’s block.

Meat Master

by Lisa Kight
        The world is filled with people who cook.  Then you have someone who not just cooks. This person elevates his cooking and preparing of food to an art form.  If there was ever a man who knew how to handle his meat, it would be my brother Linc. 
        Cooking came naturally to him. He spent his early years perched on the counter watching my mom cook.  I find the fact that he has become such a wonderful cook quite hilarious - because my mother was a terrible cook!  There was only one degree of food preparation when I was growing up: black, with a house filled with smoke.  Mom always said it was better to cook food quickly to save the nutrients, although I suspect most nutrients are long gone by the time they reach “charred”.  Linc has cooked for the former Governor of South Carolina, ladies of “high society”, and presided over hundreds of Sunday dinners at my mom’s house.
        My brother is a man of few words, but if he does speak, the words are most likely preceded by profanity. His appearance might lead one to think that this is a person to avoid on a dark street.  At first glance you see the scowl on his face, his long hair, and the clothes of a construction worker, which he is.  His rugged hands and appearance show he is not afraid of work, but if you take a moment you will see the light in his tired eyes.  He likes a nip of “snake bite”, as he calls it and reserves his smile for our mother and small children. He loves children, and they love him without question.  Where most adults might shy away from him at a gathering, it is the children who rush to him, hands held out, knowing he will lift them up into his strong arms, no matter how tired he might be.

Drugs: to Legalize or Not to Legalize?

by Miranda Jacobs
       In the United States, drug prohibition is such a relentless effort that we actually call it the “War on Drugs.”  I believe that we should end this “war” and begin an effort that is more about helping individuals who have fallen prey to drug addiction and less about incarcerating them.  Our drug laws should be made more lenient not only because of the crippling effect of incarcerating people for drug use, but also the necessity of drugs for medical purposes.
       While I do not agree that all drugs should be legalized for recreational use, I do believe that all drugs, as long as the drugs in question are safe and unlikely to cause healthy issues if administered correctly, should be legal for medical use.  If a drug is beneficial and able to provide relief to suffering patients, prohibiting medical use of the drug is unethical.  There are hundreds of thousands of individuals who suffer tormenting pain every day, and they should not be stripped of their right to relieve their pain solely because there are people who abuse drugs.

Bridge at Night by Candice Bizzell

Bridge at Night by Candice Bizzell

Social Security Number Hack

By Kimberly Lamson-Scribner
     Friday, October 25, 2012, South Carolina announced a leak of 3.6 million social security numbers that was hacked into of South Carolinians that had filed for tax returns since 1998. Noelle Phillips from The State reported that “The attack also exposed 387,000 credit and debit card numbers. The stolen data included other information people file with their tax returns such as names and addresses.” As technology progresses, the security of online information with the government needs to as well. South Carolina’s state government should hire many more and better experts to supervise online computer actions. 
     This online security breech should have never happened. Fitsnews reports that “Astoundingly, SCDOR didn’t even know it had been hacked until October 10 when it was informed of the breach by state information technology officials.  The “vulnerability in the system” was not resolved until October 20 – two months after the hacking attempts first began.” This successful attack means that it could potentially happen again and to a lot more people. WYFF4 News said that, “anyone who has filed a tax return in South Carolina since 1998 is being encouraged to take precautions after foreign hackers accessed millions of Social Security, debit card and credit card numbers.” Foreign professional hackers attacked this large amount of vital information. This means that our identities are in the hands of foreigners. Since Governor Haley set up an identity and credit monitoring system for only a year, most of the fraud with credit and debit cards will happen after then. In the meantime, the hackers are probably making identification cards with names and addresses. It’s horrifying that they weren’t even Americans that got ahold of the information because it makes it so much harder to track it back down.

ID Thieves Hack Smartphones

By Juliana Harris and Tiara Suber, South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs

     Smartphones have become an extension of ourselves. Virtually anything can be done with them, from social networking to paying bills or shopping.  But beware smartphone addicts! These “mini computers” are often the weakest link in the chain of cyber security, making them an easy target for hackers and ID thieves.  Think you’re not at risk? Think again! Below are some common threats to your personal information:

1. Public Wi-Fi - We all take advantage of Wi-Fi, it’s usually FREE and cuts down on data plan usage. But smartphones are vulnerable to malware and hacking when connected to unsecured public networks. Even though it’s free, it could end up costing you in the long run!
2. TMI (Too Much Information) - Smartphones let us share every event of our day with others—but there is such a thing as oversharing!
3. Phishing - That’s right, with a Ph! An incoming text or e-mail may be an attempt to gain access to your information.  For example, text messages saying “you’ve won a $1000 gift card” from a well-known retailer…all you have to do is click on the imbedded link to redeem it.  Don’t do it! Clicking on suspicious links can download viruses and key-loggers onto your smartphone, same with your laptop or desktop computer.

     Now you know the risks, but before we send you into panic mode, you should also know there are ways to protect yourself (or your phone). Here are some simple steps that can save you a lot of trouble:

1. Protect Your Device - Use strong, creative passwords and don’t share them with anyone. You should also use up to date anti-virus software designed for your smartphone. Many of these apps are even free!
2. Disable Bluetooth When Not in Use - Bluetooth can allow others in close proximity to intercept your conversations. So, be mindful when making a financial transaction or sharing other sensitive information with your hands free devices.
3. Securely Dispose of Your Device - Eligible for an awesome upgrade!? Before you turn that old smartphone in, make sure you erase important information and remove any SD cards.

     Are you a public Wi-Fi user? Maybe you’ve gotten a phishing text before. Tweet about it using #beentheredonethatscdca

     For more identity theft information, visit

www.consumer.sc.gov and click “Identity Theft Resources.

The Crisis Ministries Needs Your Help

by Lisa Kight
     The TTC Society of Student Leaders volunteers the third Sunday of each month in whatever way we are needed.  This month, we were needed at the Crisis Ministries.
     Crisis Ministries says about itself on its website: “Founded in 1984 out of a soup kitchen in Grace Episcopal Church, Crisis Ministries has evolved into a comprehensive service agency, dedicated to helping homeless people become self-sufficient again. Along with serving a daily meal to public, these services include emergency housing, case management, primary health care, legal services, employment services, and Veteran services.”
     “Crisis Ministries is the largest homeless service provider in South Carolina. Since its founding Crisis Ministries has served over 1,800,000 meals, sheltered over 37,500 people, and helped more than 6,250 homeless men and women become self-sufficient.”
     I arrived and was greeted by some of the gentlemen there for lunch.  They offered me a smile and direction to the kitchen where I checked in with Brad Cashman, the Volunteer Coordinator.  He is a jovial man who loves to cook and his kindness is evident in every word he says.  He is dedicated and passionate about the Ministries and it shows. You can tell he loves doing what he does.
     I was directed to the aprons and put the final touches on the meal that was being served that day. As each volunteer arrived, we introduced ourselves and gave a little information on why we were there.  Some were with organizations; some just came because they cared.  It was great to meet each and every one of the people there that day. 

Successful Blood Drive Breaks Records

by Lisa Kight   
     Congratulations to Trident Technical College for setting a new one-day record for blood donations! The drive for blood donations on March 6, 2013, was a huge success. The record-setting day was made possible due to the dedication and hard work from members of the Red Cross, Radiologic Technology Association, Society of Student Leaders, and Student Nurses Association. In between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm, these volunteers collected 92 units at the blood drive held in the 410 building on March 6, setting a one day record number of donations for the Trident Technical College’s blood drive.  Many thanks go to the volunteers for their generosity, some staying until 5 pm, well beyond the scheduled 3pm end of the blood drive.
    The mood was jovial and serious at the same time and the patience of the donors was tremendous, some having to wait 2 ½ hours just to begin the screening process of blood donation.  Not only does blood donation require a lengthy screening process, the actual donation takes a while to complete. Each person there was aware of the importance of the gift of a blood donation.  Blood donation is a generous and self-less act.  The importance goes beyond the actual donation; it reminds us that life is precious.  The joy of giving was in the air and spirits were high as each number was called.

The Society of Broadcasters

By Zaneta Kennedy

     Looking for a student activity group to join? Joining a club or organization on campus not only looks good on college applications for transfer students, but it can also give you necessary skills for the workforce as well. If you’re looking for a group to join, especially if you are a part of the Radio and Television program at Trident Tech, then consider the Society of Broadcasters.
     The Society of Broadcasters is a student activity group made up primarily of Radio and Television students, but is also open to membership for students enrolled in other areas of study at Trident Technical College. The Society of Broadcasters has three faculty advisors: Randy Grimes, Mark Bradley, and Glenn Seale. The meetings are held in the 950 building, room 244 of Main Campus during the designated student activity periods.

Get Your Glow on: $10 Facials at TTC Aesthetics Clinics

By: Lisa Collins Kight

     Did you know you can get a facial at the Palmer or Berkeley Campus for only $10?  That’s right…the Trident Technical College aesthetics clinics at the Palmer and Berkeley Campuses offer facials at their clinics for $10. This is an amazing opportunity for anyone interested in a facial.
     I arrived for my appointment and was pleasantly surprised by the calm that radiates in the skin care clinic.  The level of professionalism is superb.  One of the students greeted me and handed me a small form to fill out while I waited for my student aesthetician.  Shortly after Sarah emerged, she introduced herself and sat down beside me to discuss my concerns and ask me some questions that would help her evaluate my skin.  I was impressed with how knowledgeable and passionate she was about skin care, which immediately put me at ease. 

Do Manners Matter?

By Miranda Jacobs
     A few months ago, a girl held the door open for me to enter building 800.  Before my body made it halfway through the door, she scowled at me and angrily said, “You’re welcome.”  She became bitter and hostile the second she thought that she would not be rewarded for being kind to me.  The incident provoked me to analyze manners in a way which I had never analyzed manners before.  When we’re children, we’re taught to display manners.  We are not taught, however, to question the values of proper manners that our society holds. For example, most of us have been taught to thank others after they do something kind for us, and, consequently, most of us expect others to thank us after doing something kind for them.  But should we expect others to thank us?  My own answer to this question is no.
     You may be asking why we should even feel entitled to question manners. 

Voices

by Zaneta Kennedy

 

Put on a simulated smile,
and stretch it wide.
For no one can know
how we feel inside.

 

Like Queens of the Stoneage,
“no one knows”
the agony we face.
Each day our pain grows.

 

But I know
I really do.
Is anyone closer
than me and you?

Sunset at Shem Creek
by Candice Bizzell

Fighting Obesity in South Carolina

By Kinsely Wade
     South Carolina has one of the highest obesity rates in the country. As of 2011, South Carolina’s obesity rate was at 30.8 percent and is projected to be around 63 percent in the year 2030. Each year, it costs the state over one billion dollars due to health care problems that obesity leads to and can cause. Outside of schools, nothing is being done to help obesity problems besides banning the supplement of soda food stamps being taken into deliberation. Public officials should step in and help decrease the rates of obesity in South Carolina.
      Obesity puts a vast economic burden on the state. Taxpayers pay for around $50,000 of the one billion that goes toward obesity expenses. Yvonne Wenger of the Post and Courier reports that obesity “caus[es] diabetes, heart attacks, strokes and other related diseases and ultimately leads to early deaths,” which costs South Carolina money and productivity. Groups and organizations should be formed to help with obesity which could ultimately reduce the amount of tax dollars that people must use for health care.
Currently, health officials are trying to condense the drinking of soda beverages by cutting it out of food stamps. According to Joey Holleman of the Miami Herald, the state of South Carolina has around 875,000 people that receive food stamps, so if they were to cut down on the amount of soda one could receive, the state would make one step in the process of reducing obesity. The only problem with this is that other states have tried and “have failed to gain approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”  Therefore, our public and health officials need to strategize other ways to reduce obesity.

How About a Little Solidarity, Sister!

by  Lisa Collins Kight
     I had a most unfortunate thing happen to me recently. I had been traveling and decided,  finally, to succumb to my desire for “fast food. ”  My longing for a Big Mac, fries and a vanilla shake had been eating at me for months. I decided that at the next exit I was going to stop and quench my insatiable appetite for the toxicity of fast food done as only McDonalds can.
     I pulled into the McDonalds at the Metter, GA exit.  I decided to stop at the ladies room to “powder” my nose before I ordered.  I finished washing my hands, keeping my paper towel to open the germ infested door of the ladies room. As I was leaving the ladies room I almost collided with an attractive middle aged woman who was entering the exact moment I was leaving. Her eyes widened as we passed each other. I extended a “pardon me” and proceeded to the lobby to order my food.

Spring Flowers - Tulip Tree
Candice Bizzell

The International Club

By Tinoelle Galloway

     If you are interested in learning about multiculturalism, then join the International Club. The International Club reflects different and diverse cultures and customs of students at Trident Tech. The goal of the International Club is to educate everyone about all cultures and enhance the college experience for all students.
     People join the club to make friends and share cultural differences because it’s about being a big family. This club gives everyone an opportunity to develop leadership skills and strengthen bonds in the community. Throughout the year, the club gets involve in special events such as Karaoke Night. Karaoke Night includes cash prizes and a flashmob dance. Other upcoming events are the Red Cross Blood Drive and Quest Competition. 
     They have 30 active members. The international club has two advisors to contact: Katharine Purcell and Jacqueline Cunin. Their next club meeting will be during the student activity period on Monday, March 25 in building 100, room 145 of Main Campus. You can also contact club members on their Facebook page: TTC International Club (TiC) at https:// www.facebook.com/ttcinternationalclub.