Diana Robertson remembers how uncertain she felt when she came to the Onondaga Community College campus in 1975 to register for classes. She was the first person in her family to go to college and didn’t have anyone at home to lean on for guidance. “I had to choose a major, I had to choose my classes, and I didn’t really know what I was doing. And so, I became a Drama major.”
A newly renovated lab coupled with updated curriculum is giving students in the Mechanical Technology degree program a greater opportunity for professional success. "This state-of-the-art room has changed the way this class is perceived. It feels high tech, students have good access to information, and lots of technology in this room to work with. They feel professional," said Mechanical Technology Professor Michael Grieb, P.E. who is also Chair of Onondaga Community College's Applied Technology Department.
Onondaga Community College's new student mentoring program is off to a great start! "Lazer Link" provides incoming students the support they need to succeed by connecting them with designated returning students.
Ka'Chane Russell was disappointed when her family's financial situation forced her to leave a private four-year college in New Jersey and transfer to a community college. But today she couldn't be happier about being at Onondaga Community College. "I love it here. I know what my purpose is. This is a great campus. It's easy to be involved here and no one excludes you from anything. It's very diverse. You won’t get this at another community college."
Onondaga Community College Alumni Layne Bolton '18 and Mike Burst '19 want students who sit where they once sat to know they can have great and rewarding careers right here in Central New York. Bolton and Burst are graduates of OCC's Mechanical Technology program who work together in East Syracuse at Inficon which makes world-class instruments for gas analysis, measurement, and control. "There's so much opportunity for growth here. And they really care about the people here and I appreciate that," said Burst who is a Test Technician.
Onondaga Community College has been a central figure in the life of Steve Schill '78 and three generations of his family. His mother, Peg Schill, worked at OCC for 33 years. Steve earned an Electrical Engineering degree here in 1978. His wife Kathleen graduated with a Business Administration degree in 1981 and a Nursing degree in 2003. His mother-in-law earned her Accounting degree here. Steve and Kathleen's daughter Susan and son Robert both attended OCC. And Steve's brother graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice.
A quick, easy opportunity to get registered before winter break is here! Pop-in registration means you don't have to make an appointment; just show up during the following times and locations to meet with your advisor. It's the perfect way to get your spring schedule sorted.
Thursday, December 2nd & Monday, December 6th from 1:00 - 3:30 PM
