KPC continues to refine processes to make things easier for students by, whenever possible, moving paper-based processes online.

This is a win-win for both busy students and KPC staff responsible for receiving and processing students’ data.

A big push was recently made to bring the process of applying for scholarships fully online.

The web-based procedure makes it possible for KPC students to apply for both campus-based scholarships and others offered in the UA system.

“The comments we are hearing from students are absolutely positive. They love it!” said Kathi Overpeck, KRC financial aid coordinator. “Students say it’s easy and efficient.”

Overpeck estimates that since the process went live on Oct. 9, more than 30 KPC students have applied using the new system. “At this point, I would have expected to have maybe three, paper-based scholarship packets turned in,” she said. The new web-based process provides information that addresses different options for different types of students. There’s scholarship information for students currently enrolled at KPC locations, prospective KPC students who are not yet enrolled and Kenai Peninsula Borough high school students.

Students visit KPC’s scholarship page at this link: kpc.alaska.edu/admissions_aid/financial_aid/scholarships/ and certify that KPC is their primary campus of attendance.

They then browse scholarship opportunities, making note of those that require supplemental materials. The next step takes them to the UAOnline application page (Student Services & Account Information > Scholarships). When completed, they are redirected to the KPC scholarship page where they then upload any required supplemental materials.

By completing this one application, students’ eligibility will also be evaluated for all University of Alaska Statewide and UAA scholarships that do not require supplemental materials to be submitted. The deadline for applying for KPC-based scholarships is Nov. 13 at 5 p.m.

For more information, contact the KPC Financial Aid office located in the McLane building or call 262-0331 or email: kaoverpeck3@kpc.alaska.edu.

Engineering career session

Anyone interested in what it takes to earn an engineering degree is invited to join Cricket Watt, UAA College of Engineering academic advisor, at 3 p.m. on Oct. 19 in KRC Ward room 116. Watt will discuss the various degree programs available, the application process, prerequisite requirements and how to best prepare for an engineering career.

Individual advising appointments are available by appointment by calling KRC Counseling and Advising at 262-0383.

Fisher poets share their craft

The public is invited to a gathering of local fisher poets at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 22 in the McLane commons. Many of the poets invited are commercial fishers who will share insights into their lives making a living from the sea. Most of the poets present performed at the annual fisher poets gathering in Astoria, Oregon, including Steve Schoonmaker, Hannah Heimbuch, Clark Whitney and Meezie Hermansen. This KPC Showcase event is free to the public. For more information, call 262-0346 or email daatcheson@kpc.alaska.edu.

KRC Residence Hall hosting Kuspuk School District youth

KPC Residence Life staff is gearing up to host another EXCEL (Excellence, Communications, Employability Skills) Mini-Bridging Camp the week of Nov. 7. High school students from the Kuspuk and nearby school districts will participate in a 5-day camp engaging in career and college exploration and readiness activities including participation in KRC’s Taste of College program.

A number of students who have attended EXCEL camps held at KRC, most from the region along the Kuskokwim River, have returned to attend college and live in the Residence Hall.