Pearl River Community College students began a new school year on Monday, August 13th. While that date marked the start for approximately 4700 students that have enrolled at PRCC this school year, many more will start classes later in the semester.

Once upon a time, in the not so distant past, students did not have a lot of options. If one was not registered and enrolled in classes by that magical start date in August, then the next option would be to wait until January. However, now there are many more options for students to consider.

The typical student at PRCC, and most community colleges, is no longer an 18 – 21 year old seeking to transfer on to a university. While there are many of that demographic here, the actual average age of a student at PRCC is around 25 years of age. This new normal student is most likely a commuter with a unique set of challenges, such as family life and work. With this change in demographics has come a change in the way classes are offered. PRCC offers a wide array of online classes. There are many classes termed as late start, or mini sessions that begin at varying times throughout the year.

When considering getting a new career started by getting a new skill set via an education, there are alternate times throughout the year to get started. While the largest volume of classes begins in August and January, there are options for people that could not get in school.

There is no reason to wait, visit www.prcc.edu and apply for admissions, contact a counselor and see what options might exist for you to begin in the fall. Starting lightly by taking a mini-session, or late start course in the fall might be a great entrée into taking a full class load this spring.

Dr. Alsobrooks currently serves as the Vice President of Economic and Community Development at Pearl River Community College.