Important Online Resources 

YOU MUST HAVE COMPLETED THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IN ORDER TO COMPLETE THIS REQUIRED ORIENTATION.  YOU WILL NEED YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER AND STUDENT ID NUMBER (YOUR ID NUMBER WILL BE ON YOUR ID AND PRINTED SCHEDULE) TO COMPLETE THE ORIENTATION PROCESS.

Orientation Sessions:

Orientation is provided to new students in order to promote clarity of academic policies and to offer assistance for easing the transition into college.  The following information is adapted from our live Orientation Sessions and is here to acquaint you with the services that are available at East Central Community College.  If you do not verify that you have completed this online orientation, you will be required to attend an in person orientation the first week of the semester.

Two Keys to Success at ECCC:

• Go to class and take your studies seriously.  Ensure that you get a written copy of every course syllabus and other policies that individual instructors have available.  The Course Syllabus is a guide for you to succeed in an individual class.  It will include important dates, important assignments, and other material pertinent to an individual class.  We want you to enjoy the complete college experience, but getting an education is the reason that you are here!

• Be Informed.  Read your Student Handbook - Ignorance of the rules and policies are not an excuse.  When you enroll at ECCC, you agree to follow all rules and policies set forth by our Board of Trustees.  Also, read the Daily Bulletin, which is published every day that class is in session during the Fall and Spring Semesters.  It is available in strategic locations on campus, or you can read it on-line.

Other Very Important Information:

• College Calendar – Located in the Student Handbook and Catalog.  There is also a dynamic campus activities calendar accessible HERE.

• Attendance Requirements- (See the Student Handbook to read the detailed attendance policies.) In order to be successful in College, you must make every effort to attend class!  There are two types of absences.  An official absence is an absence where you are representing the College on official business.  An example of this would be if you are on an athletic team or in a club that misses school to go to an event scheduled by your sponsor.  Unofficial absences are all other absences.  Each instructor will have different policy as far as whether or not you are allowed to make up work.  You will be informed of this the first day of class.   Generally, you are allowed to miss two times the number of times a class meets per week.  For example, if a class meets three days per week, you can miss the class six times.  On your seventh miss, you will be cut out of the class with a grade of F. If a class meets two times per week, you will be cut out on the fifth absence, etc.  If you plan to withdraw from the class, you MUST do so before you cut out.  Many of our Career and Technical Programs have an individual Attendance Policy for each class.  If you are cut out of a class, you have the right to appeal to the your instructor for reinstatement.  You must do this within ten days of cutting out of the class and you MUST bring documentation when you complete the appeal.  Do not miss class for any reason.  You never know when you will have to miss!  If you have questions about attendance policies, contact Joe Killens at jkillens@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111, ext. 375.  Please be familiar with attendance policies!

• Withdrawal Procedures –Please be aware of the withdrawal procedures, which are located in the Student Handbook.   To withdraw from a class, you will be required to see your instructor or advisor to begin the process.  You will then need to see a counselor in either a Career-Technical Counselor or an Academic Counselor.  Your final step will be to take the Drop Card to the Office of Admissions.  If you are dropped from a class for excessive absences, you cannot withdraw from the class.  To withdraw from school, you need to see the Career-Technical Counselor or an Academic Counselor.  Again, if you are dropped from a class for excessive absences, you will receive an F in the class, even if you withdraw from school.  If you have to withdraw, do so before you cut out!!!  For questions about withdrawing from one or more classes, please contact Ms. Lanette Hanna at lhanna@eccc.edu, or 601.635.2111, ext. 308.

• Student Complaints - If you have a complaint about a policy, employee, or anything else about the College, you have the right to file an official complaint.  Details are available in the Student Handbook.  See Mr. Joe Killens in Student Services if you have any questions about this policy or call 601-635-6375.

• Probation and Suspension Policy - Please make yourself familiar with the probation and suspension policy of the College.  If you do not complete a certain number of hours with a certain Grade Point Average, you could be placed on probation for a semester.  If you fail to meet the requirements during your probationary semester, you could be suspended for a full semester.  Details can be found in the Student Handbook and in the College Catalog in chapter 3.  If you have questions concerning this policy, please contact Ms. Donna Luke, the Director of Admissions at dluke@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext.206.

• Tutorial Services – If you need tutoring in any particular subject, please go to the Learning Skills Lab on the second floor of Newton Hall.  Don’t wait until you get so far behind that you cannot catch up!  This Lab, under the direction of Ms. Mary Boulton, offers individual tutoring and different computer programs that can assist you with succeeding in college.  We are always looking for talented students who are willing to tutor those that need help.  Many majors require a certain number of volunteer hours in areas such as tutoring.  Ms. Boulton can get you started with this also!  Contact Ms. Boulton at mboulton@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 346.  The Learning Skills Center is located on the 2nd floor of Newton Hall, room 112.  The hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or by appointment. 

• Tech Prep Career Center – Career information is available in the Tech Prep Career Center, located in the Eddie M. Smith Student Service building.  Contact Ms. Christy Gregory at cgregory@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 300.

• Library – Burton Library offers a variety of library and learning experiences and services for all constituents, regardless of location.  The library collection consists of books, non-print and periodical resources, electronic technologies and special collections.  A valid ECCC identification card serves as a library card and must be presented when using the library.  For library hours and other information, see the Student Handbook, or go to the Library Webpage.  For additional information contact Ms. Gloria Johnson at gjohnson@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext 219.

• On Line Classes – The community colleges in the state collectively offer on line classes.  You can get more information about these on the Distance Learning web page.  These classes are a great alternative for someone who doesn’t have the time for the traditional classes, but they are just as difficult, or in some cases, more difficult.  On line students will receive the same services that on campus students receive. Contact Ms. Katie Sparkman at ksparkman@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 428, or Dr. Chris Jenkins at cjenkins@eccc.edu or 601-635-6322, if our have concerns about these services or if you need more information on the Mississippi Virtual Community College.

• Advisement Intervention Program – East Central has an award winning Advisement Intervention program in which we take steps to ensure that you are successful in college.  All full time students are assigned an advisor that is an expert in your chosen major.  If you decide to change majors, please contact Admissions at 601-635-2111 ext. 207.  If you are a Career or Technical Student, contact Ms. Linda McKee at lmckee@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 210.  You will be required to meet with your advisor once each semester and are encouraged to develop a relationship with them.  Your advisor will assist you through your desired program, but it is up to you as an individual to ensure that you are taking the required classes.  Each advisor has approximately twenty five advisees, so make sure that you are keeping up with your classes!  If you already know where you will transfer to after EC, get a copy of their catalog and ensure that you are taking what they require.

• Career Technical Programs – East Central offers many one and two year career and technical degrees which will allow you to go straight to the workforce.  More information is available about these programs in the Catalog, and on the EC Vo-Tech Website.  For more information, contact the Career Technical Office at weason@eccc.edu, or call 601.635.2111 ext. 210 or 211.

• Publications – EC’s campus newspaper, the Tom-Tom, is published several times each school year and gives students the opportunity to receive hands on experience in many areas.  Scholarships and college credit are also available.  The newspaper and yearbook sponsor/advisor is to be determined.

• Housing – East Central provides on campus housing for almost 600 students each semester.  Students are encouraged to complete an Application for Housing and pay the $60.00 room deposit as soon as possible so you can live in your preferred residence hall with the person that you want to live with.  Beds are reserved on a first come, first serve basis so make sure that your roommate completes their application and pays their deposit also.  You must be enrolled in at least 12 semester hours to live on campus.  If you drop below 12 hours, you will have to move out.  We also offer Honors Housing for sophomore female students with a 3.0 GPA or better.  If you want to live in honors housing, you need to see Mr. Jon Peeples before Christmas of your freshman year.  Follow the link of our Housing Website to learn more about campus housing.  For more information, contact Mr. Peeples at jpeeples@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 213.  East Central also offers a very limited amount of married housing.  Contact Mr. Gene Davis at gdavis@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 279 to learn more about married housing.  Also, wireless internet access and cable TV will be provided for the 2008-09 year - please ask Mr. Peeples about these benefits.

• Warrior Alert - Warrior Alert is rapid communication system to cell phone, email, text message, and land line phone used in case of a campus emergency.  Student Services will be gathering cell phone information from you.  As a student you may login to www.myschoolcast.com and opt out at any time, but participation in the program is strongly recommended.  Calls will only be made in imminent emergencies.  During the registration period of each term, you will be receiving via your student email account correspondence regarding your Warrior Alert login.

• Student Regulations – Students that enroll at East Central are bound by the Rules and Regulations of the College.  Please become very familiar with the Student Regulations and the A,B,C Offenses in the Student Handbook!  Students must have their EC ID on them at all times.  If you are asked by a school official (instructor, security guard, janitor, etc.) to surrender your ID, you must give it to them.  You will then be required to come to Student Services the next morning to see Mr. Jon Peeples to retrieve your card.  Mr. Peeples will investigate the situation and make a determination on whether an offense has occurred.  Offenses can result in a fine of $25.00, $50.00, removal from campus housing, or expulsion from school.  Contact Mr. Peeples at jpeeples@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 213 for more information.

• Noise -  Our most common problem on campus is noise from groups around classroom buildings and loud car radios. Please respect the rights of others!  First offense for excessive noise is a class C, which carries a $25.00 fine.

• Parking – All students that drive to class on the Decatur Campus must have a properly attached decal on their vehicle.  Citations will be issued by security if you are parked illegally. Please ensure that you avoid parking in Handicap Parking, Faculty Parking, and the area on the east side of  Clark-Venable Baptist Church.   If you receive a ticket, pay it in the Business Office within 5 days, or it will double.  The Decatur Police Department will also ticket cars illegally parked on all roads that border the Decatur Campus.  If your car is in the shop, or if you have to bring a car without a decal for a week or less, come by Student Services and acquire a temporary decal the first morning that you bring that car.  These are free of charge. If you want to contest a ticket, you will need to appeal in writing to Mr. Jon Peeples in Student Services.  You will need to attach a copy of ticket to your appeal.  You can find more information in the Student Handbook.   Contact Mr. Peeples at jpeeples@eccc.edu, or 601-635-6213, if you have questions about parking.

• Fees – A complete schedule of fees are listed in the Catalog and Student Handbook.  Fees are due at least one week prior to the first day of classes.  The only fee that can be deferred is the meal plan (board) that is required of all students that reside in a Residence Hall.  Please see the catalog or handbook to see the details of this deferment.  **All fees are subject to change upon approval of the Board of Trustees.  For questions about fees, please contact the Business Office at 601.635.2111, ext. 209, or mvance@eccc.edu.  Residence Hall fees and meal plans have increased for the 2008-09 college year.

• Refunds – Please refer to the Catalog or Student Handbook for an explanation of the College’s refund policy.

• Financial Aid Programs – Students have an opportunity to participate in a number of Financial Aid Programs at the College.  Please refer to the Catalog, Student Handbook, and the Financial Aid Website for detailed information on these programs.  The priority deadline for Financial Aid is April 1.  However, the College will work with students throughout the semester.  IF YOU ARE DEPENDING ON FINANCIAL AID TO PAY FOR YOUR ROOM, BOARD, TUITION, BOOKS, ETC, YOU NEED TO APPLY EARLY AND MAKE SURE THAT EVERYTHING IS IN ORDER BEFORE SCHOOL BEGINS.  If you wait until the last minute, you will be responsible for paying your fees up front and the College will then reimburse you toward the end of the semester.  You cannot apply late in the summer and expect everything to be complete by the beginning of the semester.  You will be required to complete a certain amount of hours with a certain GPA to continue  to be eligible for financial aid.  For questions concerning Financial Aid, contact Ms. Brenda Carson at bcarson@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext. 378.

• Work Study – The College participates in the Federal Work Study program.  If you are interested in the Work Study program, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Please ensure that you indicate that you are interested in Work Study.  For more information, contact Ms. Monica Rigdon at mrigdon@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext  379.

• Student Loans – The College participates in various types of loan programs.  If you need to take out a loan to assist with your education, please contact Ms. Burma Weidler at bweidler@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext 380.  Please remember that loans have to be paid back, with interest, so do not apply for one unless you need it to pay for school!

• Institutional Scholarships – ECCC offers many different Academic, Career, and Technical Scholarships.  Details can be found in the Student Handbook or the Catalog.  Contact Joe Killens at jkillens@eccc.edu or 601.635.2111 ext 375 for more information.   

• Student Activities – Studies have shown that the most happy and successful college students are those that get involved in extra curricular activities.  ECCC offers over 40 clubs and organizations for students to be involved in.  We also offer Intercollegiate Athletics, Intramurals, Religious Organizations, Musical Groups, and other events throughout the year.  For more information, please consult the Student Handbook.  Get involved!

• Cafeteria – Valley Food Service carries the contract for the College.  Students living in the Residence Halls must purchase a meal plan.  Commuter meal cards are also available, or you may pay on a daily basis.  See the Student Handbook for more information, or call 601.635.2979. 

• Lost and Found – Located in Student Services.  Contact Brenda Cheatham at bcheatham@eccc.edu or call 601.635.2111 ext 205.

• Medical Services – A registered nurse is on duty during the fall and spring semesters from 7:00 am until 3:00 pm.  Her office is located on the first floor of the Eddie M. Smith Student Services Building.  For more information, contact Gloria Rigdon at grigdon@eccc.edu or call 601.635.2111 ext 267.

• Student Center – A new state of the art Student Center is located in the Student Union.  The center is made up of a Grill, the College Bookstore, Admissions, a lounge area, Fitness Center, and  a Game Room.  Student Post Office Boxes are located in the game room.    For more information, contact 601.635.3873 for the Grill or 601.635.2111 ext. 213 for the Activity Center.

• Student Mail – To receive mail on campus, you must rent a campus mailbox.  These are located in the Activity Center.  Mail will be placed in your box by noon each day.  To rent a mailbox, pay the fee ($25.00 for the year, $13.00 for the semester) at the Business Office and bring the receipt to Mr. Jon Peeples in Student Services.  Mail will NOT be delivered to you if you do not have a campus mailbox.

• Student Email - Each ECCC student is assigned an Email address upon registration.  Your instructors may expect you to use this address as part of classes.  To determine your address, see the Student Email web page.

• Student Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act – In compliance with the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act, Public Law 101-542, November 8, 1990, as amended 1993, ECCC provides statistical data on its graduates and the Campus Security Report.  For further information, contact the Director of Student Life at 601.635.2111 ext. 213 concerning the Campus Security Report and the Director of Admissions at 601.635.2111 ext. 206 concerning the Right-to-Know Act.

• Finally – Do not forget: 

1.      ID – If you didn’t get it made the day you registered, please do so before classes begin.  You will need your ID to purchase books and to eat if you are a dorm student or are purchasing a commuter meal card.

2.      Parking Decal – You must have one when school starts.  Cost is $5.00 and you can pick it up in Student Services, if you did not on registration day.  You will need your Tag Number.  NO DECAL tickets are $25.00!  Spend the $5.00 up front!

3.      Housing – If you are planning to live on campus, you must complete an application for housing and pay a $60.00 room deposit.  Remember, all housing is first come, first serve.

4.      Financial Aid – If you have not begun the process, do it now!

5.      Fees – Are due a week prior to the beginning of classes.

6.      Textbooks – If you have not purchased your textbooks, you need to do so before school starts.  Call 601.635.2111 ext. 250 for information.  Your financial aid must be complete and in the system to use it for book purchases.

7.      Student Handbook – Keep a hard copy available for your information.

8.      Go to class every day, unless you have an emergency!

9.      Read the Daily Bulletin every day.

Completion of the Orientation Process: 

After you have registered for classes and reviewed all of the preceding information, you must complete the following step for your registration process to be complete:

Click the link for the Orientation Verification Page.  Complete the form as indicated - in the blanks indicated, type your full name (last name first), social security number, and EC ID number.  Your ID number will be on your ID card or schedule that you were given when you registered.  It will be a 4 or 5 digit number.  This email will verify that you have received the required information and that you are aware of the policies of the College.  If you complete this on-line Orientation, you DO NOT have to attend the on campus orientation the first week of school.  If you are going to live in a Residence Hall, YOU DO have to attend the dormitory meeting the first week of school.   

We look forward to having you as a student at East Central.  We trust that your experience here will be a very positive one. Our number one priority is your success.  If you will do your part, we feel confident that you will succeed.   If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call or email Joe Killens, 601.635.2111, ext 375.