KPC’s summer enrollment numbers have steadily climbed during the last two decades. The number of student credit hours generated during summer of 1990 compared to 2014 reveals a staggering increase of 1,354 percent (2,600 more credit hours). Students have figured out that there are many advantages to taking courses during the summer. Because the semester is much shorter, the curriculum is accelerated allowing students to fully engage and become immersed in the course work.

In addition, taking KPC summer courses can assist students who attend college elsewhere, but come home to Alaska for the break.

Registration is available from the KPC homepage (UAOnline link) and the summer course offerings are listed in the site’s searchable schedule.

Due to the popularity of the summer semester, the public is encouraged to register as soon as possible to avoid the disappointment of finding closed courses.

Most of KPC’s summer classes are web-based making them accessible to students locally and statewide. KPC has offered high-quality online courses for more than a decade. KPC professors are known for offering outstanding, interactive and engaging courses.

The semester begins on May 18 and ends on August 1.

For more information, contact KRC Student Services at iyinfo@kpc.alaska.edu or call 262-0330.

Paramedic program application period opens

According to Paul Perry, KPC assistant professor of paramedical technology, more than 84 percent of the students that have graduated from KPC’s paramedic program are working either as paramedics, within the medical field as technicians, or have returned to school in the field of nursing or physician assistant.

Perry released the application packet for the next cohort of students who will begin the program in fall 2015. With only 14 seats available in the program, the extensive application process outlines courses that must be completed prior to entry into the program. Requirements include a current resume, letters of recommendation, college transcripts, admission essay, and a background check. Application packets must be complete in order to be evaluated. Student applications are ranked using a point system. The top 25 ranked applicants will be called for oral interviews.

The application period closes May 15, 2015. Successful applicants will be notified no later than June 5. A list of stand-by applicants is maintained in the event an accepted applicant declines acceptance.

Visit the KPC website and access the application from the news section on the homepage or access directly at this link: http://bit.ly/1BVwY9M. For more information regarding the program, contact Paul Perry at 262-0378.

Veteran student population growing

There are 183 students across all academic programs and VA educational benefit chapters who found their place at KPC this semester. Of those attending, 80 are pursuing a degree or certification; 31 are pursuing process technology, 12 are studying occupational safety and health, with the remainder pursuing programs in instrumentation, paramedic technology, welding and business. Local veterans interested in exploring their options at KPC are encouraged to visit the college’s website or this direct link to the Veterans Affairs page: http://bit.ly/1vzTYsM. The Veterans Affairs office is located in the KRC Residence Hall and is headed up by Drew Baker, VA Certifying Official.

Baker is available to meet with veteran students from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday and can be reached at 262-0261 or email rdbaker3@kpc.alaska.edu.

This column is provided by Suzie Kendrick, Advancement Programs Manager at Kenai Peninsula College.