Dec 04, 2024  
2016-2017 Gaston College Student Handbook 
    
2016-2017 Gaston College Student Handbook [THIS CATALOG IS OUT-OF-DATE. USE THE CURRENT CATALOG TO FIND CURRENT PROGRAMS.]

Student Resources


 

 

 

 

 


Below are some frequently asked questions at Gaston College. You can also find additional information through our online 24/7 system, “ASK US”, which can be accessed by visiting http://www.gaston.edu/ask-us/.

Q: I need to pay my tuition and fees.

A: The Business Office, located on the first floor of the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), is responsible for collecting all tuition and fees. The Business Office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building and the second floor of the Harney Hall Building on the Kimbrell Campus also collects tuition and fees. You can also pay online through WebAdvisor.

Q: I need financial aid or scholarships.

A: Visit the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), the Student Affairs Office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus or the Student Affairs Office in KCC 116 on the Kimbrell Campus (hours vary). Students can also apply for financial aid at www.fafsa.gov.

Q: I would like to apply for an on-campus (work-study) job.

A: Visit the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus) for work-study job applications and job openings.

Q: I need to pay a parking ticket.

A: Parking tickets should be paid in the Business Office located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), or the Business Office located on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building and the second floor of the Harney Hall Building on the Kimbrell Campus.

Q: I need to know what courses to take.

A: Contact your academic advisor or divisional dean’s office in your program of study. Most new students, pre-health science majors, and special credit students should see a counselor / advisor in the Counseling Center, located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), the counselor’s office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building, or the Student Affairs Office in KCC 116 on the Kimbrell Campus.

Q: I need help with a personal problem or I need help in choosing a career.

A: Visit the Counseling and Career Development Center located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), or the counselor’s office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building. All services are free and confidential. Students who need long-term or mental health counseling will be referred to community resources to be assisted more effectively.

Q: I do not know my academic advisor.

A: Contact the Office of Records and Registration, located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), the Counselor’s Office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building, or the Student Affairs Office in KCC 116 on the Kimbrell Campus. You may also view the name of your Advisor in WebAdvisor by clicking on My Profile.

Q: I have a physical or learning disability and need special accommodations or assistance.

A: Contact the Special Needs Counselor, located in the Counseling and Career Development Center, in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), or call 704.922.6224.

Q: I want to find out how to become involved in a club or organization or I want to start a new club.

A: Contact the Coordinator of Student Activities located in the Myers Center, Room 214 (Dallas Campus) or call 704.922.6312.

Q: I want to know the names of the Student Government Association, club officers or club advisors.

A: Contact the Coordinator of Student Activities located in the Myers Center, Room 214 (Dallas Campus) or call 704.922.6312.

Q: I don’t know where my classes are located.

A: Obtain a printed copy of your schedule through WebAdvisor or in the Office of Records and Registration located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), or the Student Affairs Offices of the Lincoln or Kimbrell Campuses. Campus maps are also available online and in all of the Student Affairs Offices.

Q: I need a transcript of my grades sent to another college or to a business.

A: Official transcripts can be obtained in the Office of Records and Registration located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus). Photo identification is required in order to obtain a transcript. There is a $7.00 charge for official transcripts. Payment for official transcripts can be made in the Business Office. Continuing Education transcripts are available from the Continuing Education Registration Office located in DSC 113/114. To request your High School Equivalency diploma or transcript go to http://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/college-and-career-readiness/high-school-equivalency/high-school-equivalency-records.

Q: I want to find out about appealing a grade.

A: Contact your instructor or see the Final Grade Appeal Procedure in the Student Handbook.

Q: I have questions about transferring to a 4-year college or university.

A: The Transfer Advising Center offers a number of services to new and returning students enrolled in the Associate in Arts and Associate in Science programs. Students enrolled in these majors can seek assistance in career and educational planning, academic advising, and transition assistance to a student’s four year school of choice. In addition, the Counseling Center can provide general information as well as dates of upcoming college and university on-site visits.

Q: I want to find out about credit by examination.

A: Contact the course instructor or contact the Office of Records and Registration located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus), or the Student Affairs Offices on the Lincoln and Kimbrell Campuses.

Q: I want to drop, add, or withdraw from a course(s).

A: Visit the Office of Records and Registration located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus) or the Student Affairs Offices on the Lincoln and Kimbrell Campuses for the proper forms and further information.

Q: I need to know the attendance policy.

A: The attendance policy is up to each individual instructor. Check with your instructors for specific information on class attendance policies.

Q: I missed a class, or I feel certain I will miss an upcoming class.

A: Contact your instructor as soon as possible.

Q: I need to locate my instructor outside of class.

A: Your instructor has office hours posted on his/her office door. Also, most instructors provide their office phone number and e-mail address on their course syllabi. Further information about instructor’s office locations and office phone numbers can be obtained from the Office of Records and Registration located in the Myers Center (Dallas Campus). This information is also available from the Dean’s Office on the Lincoln Campus, or the Student Affairs Office on the Kimbrell Campus.

Q: I want to find out about student ID cards.

A: Visit the Student ID Services Office in Comer Engineering Technology Building room 207 (Dallas Campus), or the Lincoln or Kimbrell Campus Police/Security Offices for more information. There is no charge, except for a replacement ID.

Q: I have lost or found an item.

A: Visit the Office of Campus Police and Security located in the Comer Engineering Technology Building room 122 (Dallas Campus), or the Lincoln or Kimbrell Campus Police/Security Offices.

Q: I need to use a computer.

A: Computer labs are available on the Dallas, Lincoln & Kimbrell Campuses. Further information about labs and lab services can be obtained from the Office of Technology Services located in Room 11 of the Comer Engineering Technology Building (Dallas Campus), or visit http://www.gaston.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/StudentLoginInfoBookletWeb_1214.pdf for a current list of labs and locations.

Q: I need to use a computer on campus and I do not know my user ID.

A: Each semester Technology Services automatically assigns user ID logins. If you are experiencing difficulty logging onto a campus computer, please see your instructor and they can assist you. If additional technical assistance is needed, Technology Services is located in Room 11 of the Comer Engineering Technology Building.

Q: I need information from the campus library.

A: Visit the Morris Library (Dallas Campus) for checkout and renewal of books, and access to audiovisual and electronic information. The Lincoln Campus library is located in room 204 on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus main building, and the Kimbrell Campus Library is located in room KCH 101 on the Kimbrell Campus.

Q: I am having trouble with one or more of my classes or I need a tutor.

A:  Contact your instructor or the Learning Center located on the Dallas or Lincoln Campus. Contact the Dallas Campus Learning Center if you need tutor assistance on the Kimbrell Campus.

Q: I need to use photocopy machines on campus & in the library.

A:Students have the ability to use the Toshiba copiers that are located in the halls of each classroom building, library, and the Myers Center.  Copies can be made by entering your print management (Papercut) login and you can print to them by using the web printing feature.

Q: I need to buy my textbooks.

A: The Gaston College Bookstore has convenient locations on all three campuses. Dallas Campus Bookstore is located on the first floor of the Myers Center, Lincoln Campus Bookstore is located on the second floor adjacent to the Business Office, and Kimbrell Campus Bookstore is located on the lower level of Harney Hall.

Q: I need a catalog, calendar, or Student Handbook.

A: All catalogs, calendars, and Student Handbooks are available on the Gaston College website at www.gaston.edu or a copy can be obtained in any Student Affairs Office.

Q: I want to find out about available food services.

A: Vending machines are located in most buildings on all campuses to supply quick snack food and beverages. Expanded vending is available in the café area in the Myers Center. You may report any vending concerns to the Bookstore.

Q: I need additional information about classes or services offered at the Lincoln Campus.

A: More information about the Lincoln Campus can be found in the Dean’s Office on the second floor of the Lincoln Campus building or visit http://www.gaston.edu/lincolncampus/.

Q: I need additional information about classes or services offered at the Kimbrell Campus.

A: More information about the Kimbrell Campus can be found in Harney Hall at the reception desk, or the Student Affairs Office in KCC 116 on the Kimbrell Campus or visit - http://www.gaston.edu/locations-maps-directions/kimbrell-campus/.

Strategies for Success for Gaston College Students

  1. Pay your registration tuition and fees by the designated deadline!
  2. Meet with your academic advisor or department before registration begins.
  3. Register only for classes required for your major and also in which you meet the pre-requisites.
  4. Attend classes regularly. Communicate with your instructor (s) if you need to miss class.
  5. Know where to go if you have questions or need help (see the FAQ’s for starters or visit “Ask Us” at http://www.gaston.edu/ask-us/).
  6. Attend orientation sessions for online and/or hybrid courses.
  7. Update your current address and phone number online in WebAdvisor or in the Office of Records and Registration.
  8. Take responsibility for yourself and your actions.
  9. Take care of official College business (i.e., getting advised, getting registered, applying for financial aid, etc.) prior to deadlines.
  10. Solve transportation, child care, or work schedule issues prior to registering for classes.

PLAN AHEAD! STUDY! READ YOUR MAIL AND EMAIL! ASK QUESTIONS! WE WANT YOU TO SUCCEED!

Learning Center

Mission Statement: In keeping with the mission of Gaston College, the Gaston College Learning Center exists to serve the needs of the students of the College as they pursue their educational goals and develop into intellectually mature persons. Students are served along a broad continuum, ranging from one tutoring session to a combination of ongoing multiple forms of support. These services may include:

  • Peer Tutoring
  • Individualized Learning Assistance
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction
  • Video Tutorials
  • Make-up Testing for many courses
  • Quiet and/or Group Study

Please call 704.922.6349 (Dallas Campus), 704.748.5236 (Lincoln Campus) or 704.922.6349 (Kimbrell Campus) for details and schedule.

Writing Center

The Gaston College Writing Center exists to help students pursue their educational goals and develop into intellectually mature persons, competent writers, and lifelong learners. With a staff of professional writing coaches, the Writing Center provides students in Gaston College programs with writing help and support.

The Dallas Campus location is in room 236 of the Robinson Classroom Building (RCB). The Lincoln Campus location is in room 202 of the Main Lincoln Campus Building (LC 202). The Writing Center’s hours of operation vary from semester to semester. Call us at 704-922-2369 for the current hours.

The following services are provided at both locations:

One-on-One: Students can schedule appointments for coaching during regular Writing Center hours and receive assistance on one particular assignment at any stage of the writing process: brainstorming, outlining, drafting, or revising. There is no commitment to work with a coach on a weekly basis and students can drop-in several times a semester.

Regularly Scheduled Tutoring: Students can request regular writing coaching on a weekly basis. Faculty may refer students for regular tutoring. In this setting, the student will work directly with a coach on writing assignments and building basic writing skills. Most likely, students working with a coach one-on-one will commit to at least one to three hours per week for tutoring.

Small Group Tutoring: Students with a collaborative writing assignment may be assigned to work in a small group setting with a coach, who serves as a guide through the writing process.

Ask a Question - Facebook: Via Facebook, students can ask a grammar, citation or general writing question and then check back for answers as the page is updated daily.

Synchronous Online Tutoring: Students can schedule an appointment to meet virtually with one of our coaches in real time. To make an appointment, students can call or e-mail the Center and schedule a time to meet online. The student will provide his or her official Gaston College e-mail address and receive log on instructions to access tutoring. A link will be sent to the student’s e-mail address that will allow access to Blackboard Collaborate, a free online tool for collaboration in real time.

Oral Communications Lab: The Writing Center also offers an Oral Communications Lab to provide students personalized consultation and instruction on oral class assignments at any stage of development. A coach can help with oral presentations, such as public speaking, group presentations, debates, and panel discussions. We also offer one-on-one tutoring in interviewing skills, oral exams, and readings. We provide guidance on topic selection, organization, audience analysis, research, oral citation of sources, visual element design, speech apprehension, and speech and interview rehearsal with video feedback.

For more information about the Gaston College Writing Center, call 704-922-2369, send an e-mail to writingcenter@gaston.edu, or check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our webpage.

Disability Services

The Counseling and Career Development Center will assist and advise students with documented disabilities in arranging academic support and reasonable accommodations. Accommodations will be arranged on an individual basis, specific to the student’s needs. The Counseling Center’s goal is to provide students with disabilities with necessary accommodations so they may compete on an equal basis in the classroom with their peers. Students must meet with the Special Needs Counselor and provide all necessary documentation prior to receiving accommodations. Thereafter, students will need to meet with the Special Needs Counselor each semester to renew the accommodation plan and continue to receive their accommodations.

The Counseling Center serves as a resource to students, faculty, and staff on issues related to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Amendment Act of 2008, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For more information, contact the Special Needs Counselor at 704.922.6224. The Counseling Center is located on the second floor of the Myers Center.

For information regarding students’ rights, responsibilities, documentation guidelines, accommodations, and other resources, please refer to The Student Guide to Disability Policies & Procedures. This guide is available in the Office of Student Affairs and on the College website.

Instructions for Requesting Accommodations

  1. Students who need reasonable accommodations based on a documented disability or special need are responsible for requesting the accommodations with personnel in the Counseling and Career Development Center at Gaston College. Specific information can be provided by the Special Needs Counselor at 704.922.6224.
  2. Before accommodations can be made, students must provide the Special Needs Counselor with the following:
    • Documentation that describes the disability or condition; is no older than three years; is written on official letterhead; and is dated and signed by a licensed physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, other credentialed professional, or appropriate agency. The documentation should provide a comprehensive evaluation of all disabilities that impact the student’s learning in a post-secondary/college environment, as well as suggested accommodations that are specific to the student’s learning needs. Prescription notes, IEP’s, or 504 plans are not accepted as appropriate documentation but may be included as part of the comprehensive evaluation.
    • A completed Confidential Student Disclosure Form.
  3. Once the appropriate documentation has been received and reviewed, the student will meet with the Special Needs Counselor to develop an accommodation plan. When discussing the accommodation plan, the counselor and student will determine reasonable accommodations based on the documentation provided. The counselor will then prepare Letters of Accommodation which will be sent to the student’s current instructors. An updated accommodation plan must be completed by the student and the Special Needs Counselor each semester, preferably prior to the start of classes, in order for students to access their accommodations. It may take up to two weeks to arrange some accommodations.
  4. Gaston College promotes student self-advocacy. Students will be advised to discuss their special accommodations with each of their instructors. This philosophy promotes independence and develops the skills that students will need to function successfully in future work settings.
  5. The Special Needs Counselor is available for faculty consultation and meetings with students and faculty upon request.
  6. The Counseling Center will maintain copies of all documentation and disability correspondence in the student’s confidential file located within the Counseling Center.

Gaston College Libraries

In Dallas, the Morris Library & Media Center is located on Library Lane adjacent to the Rauch Science & Fine Arts Building. Parking is available. The Morris Library is a spacious facility that offers a variety of library services for students. Collections include books, magazines and newspapers, videos, CDs, etc. Gaston Libraries are members of the CCLINC consortium. This consortium, composed of 50 of the 58 community colleges, shares a library system and provides students with access to the members’ collections.

There are 36 computer workstations located in the Morris Library. Computer users must abide by the College’s Acceptable Use Policy. Internet access is provided. Wireless Internet is also available to students throughout the library. NCLIVE and other Web-based resources are available from the library homepage at www.gaston.edu/library. Library cards are issued at the circulation desk. Distance education resources are available through the library homepage and Blackboard.

Library services include the following: checkout and renewal of materials, reference and research assistance, Internet access, interlibrary loan service, use of study and viewing areas, and remote access services. Distance learning classrooms, including the NCIH classroom, are located on the second floor of the Morris Library. Morris Library also includes the Morris Library Training Lab (Room 120) which houses the library’s 3D printer and 3D scanner.

All campus libraries have services identical to those available at the Dallas Campus. For campus library hours please see the front of the handbook and the library website.

Distance Education

Distance education provides educational opportunities for students who are separated from the instructor by time and/or physical distance. Gaston College offers two main types of distance education courses:

Internet courses meet online, where students receive lessons, complete assignments, and communicate in a virtual classroom. Students must have regular access to a computer and the internet; have good computer skills; work independently; and be self-motivated. Internet courses have course content, a schedule for completing online assignments, and require a minimum of 2-4 hours of independent study per course credit hour. Generally students are NOT required to come to campus; however, some Internet courses may require proctored tests/presentations or labs to complete the course.

Hybrid/Web-Assisted courses meet onsite and online, as designated on the course schedule. While these courses utilize some of the same technologies as Internet courses, students also attend some face-to-face sessions.

Many of our traditional face-to-face courses will use Blackboard to supplement instruction.

Out-of-State Online Student Grievance

Gaston College students residing outside the state of North Carolina who desire to resolve a grievance are encouraged to follow the College’s Student Complaint Procedure  . If an issue cannot be resolved internally, a complaint may be filed with the appropriate state agency for handling complaints or with Gaston College’s accrediting agency. Please visit the Distance Education webpage at www.gaston.edu/online-learning/ for more information.

FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requirements and guidelines apply and extend to distance education students. Gaston College ensures the integrity of its courses and programs offered through distance education by verifying the identity of students participating in classes and completing coursework.  The primary method for verification is a required secure login and password to Blackboard.  Students are advised to protect their username and password at all times.  In addition to secure login credentials, some distance education classes may require proctored examinations.  The College provides proctoring services free of charge at the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center (LPCC).  The College does not charge students related to verification identity, though students are required to present a photo ID, i.e., driver’s license or Gaston College ID (for which there is additional charge) at the LPCC. Students who are unable to take an exam at the LPCC may often use proctoring services at local libraries or colleges free of charge.  For students who are unable to use any of the free-of-charge proctoring services, any proctoring charges incurred are the responsibility of the student.    

Gainful Employment

For information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed a particular program of study, and other important information related to choosing a program of study, please visit our Gainful Employment website at http://www.gaston.edu/consumer-information/gainful-employment/.

Consumer Information

Gaston College is committed to providing prospective and current students, parents, and employees with information on a variety of topics as required by the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. Please visit our Consumer Information webpage at www.gaston.edu/consumer-information/ for more information.

A copy of the required disclosure information is available upon request by contacting Student Affairs at 704-922-2383.

Learning, Persistence & Completion Center

From the first day of class to graduation, the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center (LPCC) helps students stay on track by helping them overcome any barriers, and by providing tools and strategies that will assist with academic and personal success.  For additional information go to our website at: www.gaston.edu/student-success-support-programs/. The LPCC holds fast to the idea that all students have the ability to succeed and achieve through full use of the resources and application of the strategies provided. The following programs are under the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center.

ACA

The Learning, Persistence & Completion Center manages the Academic Related (ACA) courses and encourages all students in college transfer programs to enroll in ACA 122 during their first or second semester in an effort to increase successful course completion, progress to graduation, and transfer to a four-year institution. College Transfer Success: ACA 122 class is required for all students in the college transfer program.

Early Alert

The Learning, Persistence & Completion Center also manages the College’s Student Persistence and Success Plan (SPSP). This reporting system provides a tool for staff, academic advisors, and faculty to work collaboratively concerning students’ academic performance in a course, including: attendance, homework completion, study skills, motivation, class participation, and grades. The purpose of the SPSP is to:

• Provide feedback concerning students’ overall performance in a course

• Give suggestions/strategies for students to improve

• Enable the College to better identify and intervene with students

Student Emergency Assistance Program

The Student Emergency Assistance Program (SEAP) was developed to assist students with academic-related emergencies that typically derail their academic progress. The Gaston College Foundation raises funds to support this program. Students can apply for a maximum of $200 per academic year for an immediate academic need that is deterring their success at Gaston College. Items covered under the fund include: tuition and fees, textbooks, and academic supplies such as required kits, tools, uniforms, tests, etc. After students complete and submit the application, a staff member from the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center (LPCC) provides assistance with the application process and later informs students if they are approved. Students are asked to write a letter of appreciation to the College Foundation. Application criteria and forms can be found on the LPCC website.

TRiO/Student Support Services

TRiO/SSS is a federally funded Program. TRiO/SSS provides a supportive environment where students can feel comfortable asking for help. TRiO/SSS provides the student with a one-stop shop for all academic, personal, and career needs. Eligibility for Student Support Services is based on federally defined criteria. Students who meet at least one of the following criteria are welcome to apply:

• Low Income

• First Generation

• Documented Disability

 

Participants must also:

• be a US Citizen

• have a GPA of 2.0 or higher

• attend Gaston College

• not hold a bachelor’s degree

Step Up

At the heart of Gaston College’s most successful student initiatives is a holistic advising model which provides individualized services to “at-risk” students.  Step Up will provide one Success Advisor with the aid of three Peer Mentors to proactively advise 75 students who are either low income or first-generation, with a focus towards minority students between the ages of 18 and 24.

Learn 4 Life

This program was developed in order to help students enhance their experience and employability by earning the Learn 4 Life Award. This optional program involves hands-on learning, in-depth studies, and guidance along the way. After meeting all the requirements for the program, the student will receive recognition during graduation ceremonies. Applications for Learn 4 Life can be found online or they can be picked up at the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center.

Religious Observances

Students are permitted up to two excused absences per academic year for religious observances.  Excused absences do not relieve students from responsibility for any course requirements but do permit students to make up the missed exam(s) or assignment(s).  The student is responsible for determining any exam(s) or assignment(s) that are due or given on the missed date(s) and for reaching a reasonable, non-punitive alternative with his/her instructor for the completion of course requirements. The student should be prepared to fulfill the requirements at a time determined by the instructor, other than the excused day.

In order to make up the exam(s) or assignment(s) and have an excused absence, a “Notice of Accommodation for Religious Observances” form must be completed and submitted to the Dean’s Office in the student’s program of study by the end of the second week of classes in the term(s) in which the day(s) will be missed.  Students may obtain this form from any Divisional Dean’s Office.  

Community Resources

It is evident that students need support beyond what the College is able to provide. Many students need food, shelter, clothing, transportation, and other basics. A manual outlining community resources is available on the College website. The manual includes the contact information and the type of support that local agencies provide. In addition, members of the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center staff visit agencies to build relationships. If you are in need of community resources, please see the secretary of the Learning, Persistence & Completion Center.

Bookstore

The Gaston College Bookstore provides textbooks, school/office supplies, and study aids to complement the education experience at Gaston College. Computer software along with laptops, tablets and other electronic products can be purchased at the main campus. The Bookstore also provides imprinted apparel, greeting cards and gift items for school spirit and convenience. Store hours are located in the front of this Handbook. There are three locations that service both Gaston and Lincoln counties:

Dallas Campus Bookstore

Dallas Campus Bookstore is located on the first floor of the Myers Center on the main campus. Contact the Dallas Campus Bookstore at 704.922.6428.

Lincoln Campus Bookstore

Lincoln Campus Bookstore is located on the second floor of the main Lincoln Campus Building. Contact the Lincoln Campus Bookstore at 704.748.1075.

Kimbrell Campus Bookstore

Kimbrell Campus Bookstore is located on the lower level of Harney Hall. Contact the Kimbrell Campus Bookstore at 704.825.6280.

Website

Gaston College Bookstore has a website for online textbook purchases, price checks, and upcoming events. Your new, used or rental textbook purchases are only a click away by going to www.gaston.bkstr.com.

Textbook Buyback

Textbooks can be sold back to the Bookstore during book buybacks held at the end of each semester during final exam week.

Refund Policy

Textbooks- Refunds are given each semester based on the following refund policy:

Full refunds will be given during the first ten business days of the current semester or ten days from the date of purchase. You must provide proof of purchase when you are making returns. Returned textbooks must be unmarked and in re-saleable condition. Bundled textbooks cannot be unwrapped. Refunds are NOT given on textbooks purchased for a previous semester. No refunds are given on supplies, gifts, or non-textbook items.

The Counseling and Career Development Center

The Counseling and Career Development Center provides academic, career, and personal counseling services and academic advising to Gaston College students. The center also provides career assessments (skills, interest, personality, and values inventories), college-transfer information, and disability services. The Counseling Center is located on the second floor of the Myers Center at the Dallas Campus. Counselors are available to meet with students on the Kimbrell Campus by appointment and a counselor is on staff at the Lincoln Campus. All services are free and confidential.

Personal Counseling Services:

Counselors are available to discuss academic, social, or personal concerns that may interfere with student success. Students who need personal counseling beyond a few sessions will be referred to community resources to be assisted more effectively.

Career Services:

The counseling staff provides career guidance to students who need help with making decisions regarding educational and career goals. Counselors use a variety of interest inventories and online resources to assist students in the career exploration process.

Academic Advisement:

The majority of new students enrolling at Gaston College are advised in the Counseling Center during their first semester. Pre-health, undecided, and special credit students are advised by counseling staff beyond their initial semester. The Transfer Advising Center helps students in planning and completion of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Associate in Fine Arts degrees at Gaston College. Academic advising is an integral part of student success. It is recommended that continuing students meet with their assigned advisor on a regular basis to review academic plans and progress.

Work-Based Learning and Placement (WBLP)

Work-Based Learning (WBL) is an academic program that provides students an opportunity to gain actual job related experiences and earn college credit. Emphasis is placed on integrating classroom learning with related work experience. Additionally, WBLP offers a full range of services to assist students and graduates in preparing for and finding employment opportunities. For additional information, please contact the Office of WBLP at 704-922-6360 or 704-922-6212.

Food Service and Vending

Vending machines are located in most buildings on all campuses to supply quick snack food and beverages. Expanded vending is available in the café area in the Myers Center. All vending is provided as a convenience to the campus community. If you encounter an equipment malfunction, you may report any vending concerns to the Bookstore.

Housing

Gaston College is a commuter institution founded to serve residents of the surrounding area and does not provide housing for its students. It is the responsibility of students who require housing to arrange their own accommodations. A listing of apartments is available in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The College assumes no responsibility for the arrangements agreed upon by the landlord and tenant.

Myers Center

The Myers Center provides students with the opportunity to eat in an attractive, comfortable dining area with WiFi access; to purchase books, supplies, and other materials from the Bookstore; and to participate in College-sponsored events in the multi-purpose auditorium. The Myers Center also houses the offices of the Student Government Association, Student Affairs, Business Office, Sponsorship Office, and the Music Department.

Design, Print, and Mail

Design, Print, and Mail is located in the basement of the Comer Engineering and Technology Building, room 17A.  For hours of operation, see the front section of this document.

Printing Services: Various printing services are available, and require a three (3) day turnaround.  These services include the following:

  Black and White Copies: $0.10 each
  Black and White Photo Copies: $0.25 each
  Color Copies: $1.00 each or 100 or more $0.75 each
  Laminating: $0.35 per foot


Mailroom Services: Students may deposit mail for afternoon delivery. Stamps may also be purchased in the mailroom.

Print Management

Gaston College is implementing a print management system, PaperCut, as a green initiative and in an effort to reduce waste in all curriculum computer labs and libraries.  Each semester, currently enrolled curriculum students will be credited $10.00 each semester for printing. Remaining balances at the end of each semester will not roll over.

·       The price for printing is as follows:

Black and White

Single sided - $0.10/per page

Duplex - $0.15/per page

Color

Single sided - $0.25/per page

Duplex - $0.38/per page

Color Printing is available in the Dallas, Kimbrell, and Lincoln Campus libraries. Students have the capability to add funds to their accounts if the amount allocated is exceeded via PayPal or coin-ops (available in each of the libraries). Public users and non-curriculum students have the capability of utilizing the library computer. For more information go to: http://www.gaston.edu/student-resources/technology-resources/student-technology-resources/faq-student/ or http://www.gaston.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/StudentLoginInfoBookletWeb_1214.pdf.

Student ID Cards

Although not required, student photo ID cards are made in the Student ID Office in the Comer Engineering Technology Building, room 207 (Dallas Campus), or the Lincoln or the Kimbrell Campus Police/Security Offices. There is no charge for the ID, except for a replacement ID. A replacement photo ID card is $10.00. Photo ID’s are made for current curriculum students only. Students must provide the Campus Police/Security Office with proof of a current student class schedule. For further information, contact Campus Police at 704.922.6480.

Gaston County Access Central Transportation

ACCESS provides bus service to the Gaston College Dallas Campus Monday through Friday. For more information call 704.866.3206.

PICKUP @ DALPIAZ BUILDING
Only $1.00 One-Way Fare

Gastonia Transit Gaston College Campus
Pickup Departure Time Arrival Departure Time

7:28 am 7:30 am 7:50 am 8:00 am
8:28 am 8:30 am 8:50 am 9:00 am
9:28 am 9:30 am 9:50 am 10:00 am
10:28 am 10:30 am 10:50 am 11:00 am
11:28 am 11:30 am 11:50 am 12:00 pm
12:28 pm 12:30 pm 12:50 pm 1:00 pm
1:28 pm 1:30 pm 1:50 pm 2:00 pm
2:28 pm 2:30 pm 2:50 pm 3:00 pm

Inclement Weather Communication Notice - Gaston College Closings and Delays

In the event of inclement weather, the College President or designee may close the College or modify its operating schedule.  Closing the College or operating on a modified schedule is separate from Gaston and Lincoln County Schools or any other public school system.

Note:  Please do not assume that whatever decision is made for Gaston or Lincoln County Schools or any other public school system also applies to Gaston College.

How To Stay Informed: Inclement Weather Announcements

GC Alert

  • Receive text message and or email announcements
  • To sign up for GC Alert:
    • Go to the Gaston College website at www.gaston.edu
    • Under “About Us,” click on “Campus Police and Safety”
    • Under “Related Items,” click on “GC Alert,” and follow the instructions

Radio and TV

  • WSGE 91.7 FM - Gaston College
  • WBT 99.3 FM - Charlotte
  • WBT 1110 AM - Charlotte
  • WLNK 107.9 FM - Charlotte
  • EDAC-TV Channel 21 (Education Access) - Gaston
  • WBTV-TV (CBS) - Charlotte
  • News 14-TV (Carolina) - Charlotte

College Switchboard

  • Contact the College Switchboard at 704.922.6200
  • Listen for recorded announcements

College Website

Effective: 11/3/14 Supersedes: 1/14/11