Movement Science Program Boasts Top-Tier Equipment

August 23, 2021 by mlemon

Students learn how the human body moves, effects of disease, age and exercise

In a corner of the new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center, away from the near-constant thumping of volleyballs being hit, squeaking of athletic shoes and enthusiastic shouts of competitors, sits a seemingly quiet classroom.

Mark Papineau is the Movement Science program coordinator

Once you enter, however, the space bursts to life with an array of high-tech machines dedicated to Schoolcraft College’s Movement Science program. As the name suggests, Movement Science students study how the human body moves as well as how it is affected by disease, age and exercise.

The program offers a solid foundation for graduate school and/or careers in medicine, pharmacy, public health, fitness training, exercise physiologist, and physical and occupational therapy. The College offers both a one-year certificate (8 courses, 24 credits) and an Associate Degree (18 courses, 60-63 credits).

“We have three new and important pieces of high-tech equipment that will enhance the Movement Science program this fall and give students an advantage whether they go on to work in the field or transfer to a four-year institution,” said Mark Papineau, program coordinator for Movement Science.

“We have three new and important pieces of high-tech equipment that will enhance the Movement Science program this fall and give students an advantage whether they go on to work in the field or transfer to a four-year institution.”
Mark Papineau, program coordinator for Movement Science.

“The technology provides objective measures to help evaluate body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and the strength, endurance, power and range of motion of major joints and muscles. Using the results can help determine areas or deficiencies that need improvement. The experienced movement science professionals who can utilize this high-tech equipment and the data produced are highly sought-after.”

Here’s a closer look at the new high-tech testing tools.

Two people using medical machinery — **The Biodex System Isokinetic Dynamometer** **is a high-tech device used for muscle testing and rehabilitation by movement science professionals.**

The Biodex System Isokinetic Dynamometer is a high-tech device used for muscle testing and rehabilitation by movement science professionals.

This isokinetic dynamometer allows you to evaluate strength, endurance, power and range of motion of major joints and muscles, and provides detailed objective data results of their performance. The results can be used to determine the areas or deficiencies that need improvement.
The dynamometer provides objective measures and targeted exercise to help manage common sports injuries and determine safe return to play for athletes.
Provides consistent, accurate data.
Gives muscle performance measurements.
Can be used for rehabilitation.
Can be used for conditioning.
Can help older adults strengthen the muscles associated with ambulation.

The Parvo Metabolic Cart Heart Monitor with treadmill or bike. This is a compact integrated metabolic measurement system for cardiopulmonary stress testing, indirect calorimetry, and maximal oxygen consumption measurement.

Used by NASA and U.S. Olympic Training Centers, biophysicists developed this cutting-edge technology that delivers accurate metabolic measurements under the most demanding exercise conditions.
Test subjects can use either the bike or the treadmill, while the Oxygen Analyzer and the Carbon Dioxide Analyzer measure the respiratory gases, oxygen and carbon dioxide.
It also analyzes data on:
- Calories per minute of expenditure.
- Where the calories are coming from – carbohydrates or fat sources in the body.
It is used for exercise physiology, athletic testing with high accuracy at high workloads, and it is used for high-altitude training.

A person operating a body pod — **The Bod Pod is a body composition tracking system.**

The Bod Pod is a body composition tracking system. The system will be used for body composition testing that students will be taught to perform and provide information for them to use in developing exercise prescriptions.

The Cosmed USA, Inc. Bod Pod is the most current state-of-the art system for determining body composition. The Bod Pod system uses whole-body densitometry via air displacement plethysmography (ADP) to determine body composition (percent body fat and fat-free mass) in children and adults, and can accommodate a wide range of populations.

A full test requires only about five minutes, and provides accurate, safe, comfortable results.

The testing is fast, accurate and completely non-invasive.
It can be used for assessing special populations such as young children from 2-6 years, the elderly, or disabled.

“The use of the high tech equipment for data analysis and formulating targeted lifestyle changes and conditioning is a skill we can give our students and open career pathways they may not have considered before,” Papineau said. “Students who go on to become movement science professionals utilize education, lifestyle intervention, and specific exercise programs to train, condition, and rehabilitate the fitness, recreation, and athletic community.”

Huge benefit to students

Papineau is eager to share the benefits of the equipment as they can immediately apply what they are learning during the lecture portion of the classwork.

“There are more opportunities to teach students in the expanded lab space and to serve other campus shareholders on this testing equipment,” he said. “Having the lab and the classroom in the same facility means that students can learn through lecture and practical demonstration about fitness assessment protocols. “

Students in class will learn to critically analyze why a particular fitness test is utilized, and the standard procedures for conducting the test.
Going into the lab they can learn how to properly administer tests and how to read the analysis from the test results.

And with that knowledge, they can better understand specific fitness testing protocols. Specifically, the students will be able to:

Compare test results with normative data to create a fitness profile.
Determine the advantages and disadvantages of selecting a specific fitness test over other tests that evaluate the same parameters.

The possibilities seem almost limitless.

“We have expanded the potential for our students and the athletes who train here, aiding in-patient recovery, rehabilitation, and providing better outcomes and research,” Papineau said. “Our students and community shareholders will be able to help weekend athletes and professionals by utilizing education, lifestyle changes and specific forms of exercise along with the latest data obtained on our equipment. They will teach others how to reduce injury and re-injury with targeted software, research, and clinical guidelines.”

David S. Kesler, D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) and Associate Dean of Health Professions, shares Papineau’s enthusiasm and looks forward to serving Schoolcraft College students and the community.

“The Movement Science Program has brought together a panoply of rare and specialized equipment that will be of great benefit to students and athletes in and around northwestern Wayne County,” he said.

Learn more about Schoolcraft College’s Movement Science program.

August 16, 2021 by mlemon

He’s learning from leaders in the construction industry

Will Peper, who is pursuing a path toward civil engineering, has the opportunity to better understand his prospective career thanks to a scholarship that has him working for a valued partner of Schoolcraft College on an important on-campus construction project.

Peper, of Plymouth, is the recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship, and he’s been busy this summer working on the refurbishing and upgrading of the Applied Science building, which is transforming into the Health Sciences Center (HSC).

“My goal was and is to have hands-on experience for what engineers do on a daily basis, and AUCH has graciously provided a means for that to happen,” Peper said.

Peper comes from a large family, including six older siblings who were Schoolcraft College students, so he was familiar with the school. He also was familiar with AUCH Construction.

“My goal was and is to have hands-on experience for what engineers do on a daily basis, and AUCH has graciously provided a means for that to happen.”

Will Peper, Schoolcraft College student and recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship

“I am used to seeing the AUCH sign next to the St. Joe’s Sports Dome while driving past on I-275, but I was not aware that AUCH was responsible for renovations of existing buildings or the creations of new ones, such as the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center.”

Indeed, AUCH has been an important partner for the College. In addition to the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center and the Sports Dome, AUCH’s other projects for Schoolcraft include:

The Manufacturing & Engineering Center in Livonia, home to the College’s occupational programs
The Public Safety Training Complex in Livonia, home to the College’s police and fire academies
Numerous renovations of rooms and space in buildings across the main campus

A medical building — **The new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center is one of many projects that AUCH Construction has led on the campus of Schoolcraft College.**

The transformation of Applied Science, which formerly housed the occupational programs, to the Health Sciences Center, is the next key project for the College. The HSC will be the future home of all programs related to healthcare, with partial occupancy expected for the Fall 2021 semester. The upgrades will add 36,600 sq. ft. of space to the current Applied Science building.

“Most of my experience has been gained through observing and participating in the process of renovating the Applied Science building,” Peper said. “Many of my day-to-day tasks range anywhere from cleaning up the building and surrounding areas to reflect an efficient, orderly and well-managed project site; preparing areas to be worked in by other tradesmen; and assisting foremen of various subcontractors in completing one-off tasks.

“With the assistance of my superintendent, I have attempted to dabble in various projects that would normally be done by various tradespeople (carpentry, demolition, masonry).”

The AUCH team has been glad to have Peper this summer.

Four people standing in front of a building — **Will Peper (second from right) is shown with (from left) Jeffrey D. Hamilton, Shawn Verlinden and Vincent DeLeonardis**

“We were delighted that Will was the recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship and can now take it a step further with some real life work experience in an effort to guide him with his goals for a potential future career in our industry,” said Jeffrey D. Hamilton, President, AUCH Construction.

Peper has been grateful for the experience.

“I had never stepped foot on a construction site before May of this year,” he said. “My exposure to hands-on projects was rather limited growing up, and my knowledge leading up to my internship was lackluster as a result. However, with the grace, patience, and immeasurable experience of my supervisors, my ability to expand my understanding of the construction world has been unprecedented.”

August 16, 2021 by mlemon

The hope is that in-person performances return this fall

Today for “Faculty Spotlight” we’re sitting down with Dr. Frederick Moss, the new Department Representative for Music and Theatre.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Dr. Moss, and congratulations on your new role! To start out, could you please tell us about your position at Schoolcraft College, how long you have been with us and what classes you teach?

Dr. Frederick Moss is a talented performer of the piano and the clarinet.

Frederick Moss: I began teaching at Schoolcraft in the fall of 2001. My charge was to teach one section of Music 107, which is music for elementary school teachers. It was a wonderful diversion from writing my dissertation. When the dissertation and doctorate were completed, my work at Schoolcraft expanded to include teaching music appreciation, popular music in America, and applied instrumental music studio class.

For now, I will continue to teach the same classes I have been teaching. The primary new responsibilities for me will include overseeing the music and theater departments, representing those departments at meetings and functions across campus, working with other faculty to recruit students for music and theater, and assist with sharing the good word regarding music and theater with the larger community.

SC: What prompted your interest in music?

Frederick Moss: I do not remember not being interested in music. My earliest musical memory is listening to my sister practice the violin when I was probably no more than 3 years old. On some level, I remember thinking, “I’m going to do that someday.” Legendary singer Tony Bennett said, “I can’t not sing.” His words very much describe my relationship with music.

SC: We understand you play both the clarinet and the piano. How often do you perform and what do you like about each of those instruments?

Frederick Moss: Clarinet is my main public performance avenue. As a youngster, I rather stumbled upon it as my best friend in fifth grade band was playing it also. I grew to absolutely love the sound of the instrument. As I began learning the clarinet literature, I fell in love with it also.

Piano has become my own personal “music therapy.” Sitting down and playing the piano has become like sitting in a wonderfully comfortable easy chair for me, though I have played in restaurants and for numerous weddings and private parties. I also do play the piano in class to accompany my students or provide examples of various ideas in music.

Regarding clarinet performance, in the last few years, I have appeared regularly on the faculty recital at Schoolcraft. Thanks to the pandemic, the clarinet has taken a bit of a back seat as I have had a LOT to learn about teaching online. A couple of my music faculty colleagues and I are very interested in developing a chamber music ensemble, however, and I am really looking forward to that type of collaboration.

SC: It’s no secret that funding for the arts in elementary schools, middles schools and high schools have been drastically reduced in recent years. You have taught several courses related to instructors who want to teach music. In your opinion, why is it important for children to be exposed to the arts?

“My main goal is to broaden the understanding of the community well beyond our campus perimeter regarding the good things that are going on in music and theater at Schoolcraft.”

Dr. Frederick Moss, Department Representative for Music and Theatre

Frederick Moss: Humans are musical beings. We are also mathematical beings and linguistic beings and all manner of other kinds of beings. In education, we have to make a decision regarding the extent to which we want to shape the whole person or only those aspects.

In schooling, we have taken for granted subjects like math, science, and language arts. I vote for teaching the whole person in school with a highly qualified music teacher in the same way, generally, we intend to have high-qualified teachers for math, science, and language arts.

I am a big fan of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs, but I am an even bigger fan of STEAM initiatives (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) where, at least in theory, the arts stand right alongside those other important academic areas.

SC: The Music and Theatre departments at Schoolcraft College have been well-respected for many years, with the performances, recitals and productions enjoyed by community members. What are your goals for the departments?

Frederick Moss: My main goal is to broaden the understanding of the community well beyond our campus perimeter regarding the good things that are going on in music and theater at Schoolcraft. I often am surprised by some version of the following comment: “I didn’t know Schoolcraft had a music department.”

My sense is that a significant number of people are similarly unaware of what we have to offer regarding theater. My colleagues work tirelessly to develop courses and performances, so I really want to get the word out that Schoolcraft is the place to come to either study or enjoy a performance in those areas.

SC: What do you like best about teaching at Schoolcraft College?

Frederick Moss: I love the “community” in “community college.” When I started teaching at Schoolcraft, I was struck by the degree to which a really kind and caring community existed on campus. As I have taken on more classes and participated in committees, I have enjoyed becoming more and more a part of the campus community. I look forward to deepening that relationship as a full-time faculty member.

Man sits at piano — Dr. Frederick Moss is a talented performer of the piano and the clarinet.

SC: Will we have live performances on campus this year? Can you provide any updates?

Frederick Moss: Of course, everything is subject to what happens regarding the pandemic, but we are working toward live music performances on campus as early as December and live theater performances in winter. In the meantime, look for some more online events during the fall.

SC: You also serve as a member of our DEI Task Force. Please tell us why you wanted to be part of that.

Frederick Moss: I have long felt that diversity is one of the great spices of life. My greatest personal growth has occurred when I have opened myself to learning as much as I can about individuals who have life experiences different from my own. Sometimes that learning has been difficult or even painful as I have had to examine assumptions I was holding unknowingly about people, but it has always been worth it.

In these complicated times, I felt that a diversity, equity, and inclusion task force could do a lot to foster more opportunity for us all to learn more about each other as our own campus community becomes more and more diverse. In addition, as a visually impaired person, I welcomed the opportunity to represent disability at the DEI table.

SC: Thank you, Dr. Moss. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Frederick Moss: Go Ocelots!

August 9, 2021 by mlemon

As a team, Schoolcraft compiled a 3.59 GPA

Before – and after – the Schoolcraft College women’s bowling team hits the lanes, they hit the books. Hard.

That dedication to academics paid off in a big way as Schoolcraft was named the 2020-21 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Academic Team of the Year in Women’s Bowling for achieving the highest grade point average in their sport.

This is the first time the women’s team has achieved this honor. It’s also the first time any Schoolcraft College team has achieved it since 2015-16 (men’s bowling).

“It’s obviously a very special and prestigious honor when you look at all of the other schools across the country that were eligible for this.”
Patrick Yelsik, Schoolcraft College women’s bowling coach

“It’s obviously a very special and prestigious honor when you look at all of the other schools across the country that were eligible for this,” coach Patrick Yelsik said. “Knowing the kind of young women who we have in our program, it doesn’t come as a total shock.

“Being around them every day, you learn very quickly that it is an exceptional group that has a laser focus and can be borderline perfectionists, and I say that in the highest regard. I’m extremely proud of them.”

As a team, Schoolcraft compiled a 3.59 GPA. Sophomore Allison Little (Livonia Churchill) earned NJCAA Second-Team Academic All-American honors with a 3.98 GPA in 2020-21, as did freshman LeiLani Williams (Carlson) with a 3.92 GPA. Sophomore Amanda Fsadni (Anchor Bay) was named to the NJCAA All-Academic Third Team with a 3.70 GPA.

Student-athletes in all sports face tremendous pressure balancing making time to play the sport they love with their academic load as well as other responsibilities.

“We practice two hours a day, four days a week, and then our tournaments are on Fridays, so it’s not uncommon for those to be 12-to-14 hour days when you factor in travel,” Yelsik said. “Then combine that with the fact that most everyone on our team has some sort of job on top of taking a full-time class load, there is definitely a time management component that they have to be able to successfully navigate, as is the case with any student-athlete.”

A key resource Schoolcraft College has in place to help student-athletes succeed is the Student Athlete Support System, or SASS. This program, one of the most comprehensive among community colleges, serves as both a checkpoint and a way to get students back on track.

The Schoolcraft College women’s bowling team achieved the highest grade point average in their sport in the National Junior College Athletic Association for the 2020-21 season

Amy Proctor is the SASS Coordinator. Essentially, she’s the liaison among instructors, coaches, the Director of Athletics and the students. Faculty report to her six times a semester (about every two weeks) on the following:

Attendance
Passing
Borderline
Failing

“Most of our student-athletes at Schoolcraft College have the ‘student’ part down really well,” Proctor said. “We want everyone to stay on track, so we’re here to assist those who need a little help now and then.”

Yelsik is grateful for her help.

“A big thank you to Amy Proctor, our Student-Athlete Support Services Coordinator, for her tireless work on the academic side of the fence with the students as well as the rest of our Athletic Department Staff and my assistant coach Ashley Schou, who is able to provide much more guidance with homework on those long bus trips than I can,” he said.

Director of Athletics Cali Crawford is understandably proud of the achievement.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment, and full credit to our coaches for setting the right example and proper focus on priorities, to our women’s bowling team student-athletes for putting in the time on their studies and to our support staff for all of their help,” Crawford said. “I have no doubt that these young women are going to continue to be successful with whatever the next step in their journey may be and beyond.”

August 9, 2021 by mlemon

Here’s a little quiz that answers your questions

The Fall 2021 semester is just around the corner (classes start Monday, Aug. 30), so how about a little summer quiz to get you in the mood for classes?

Don’t worry – this one is open book! We’ve got all the answers you need below. And if you see something that wasn’t covered, please call Student Relations at 734-462-4486 or email [email protected].

Q: Will there be in-person classes for the Fall 2021 semester?

A: Yes. Depending on the course, Remote, Hybrid, and Online options will be offered as well.

Q: Do I have to be vaccinated to attend Schoolcraft College?

A: No. If you do want to get vaccinated, you can do so in the VisTaTech Center right here on campus. Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. No appointment is needed.*

Students writing at desks — In-person classes will be offered for the Fall 2021 semester.

Q: Will I have to wear a face covering?

A: If you are fully vaccinated, which is defined as two weeks after your last dose, you do NOT have to wear a face covering (nose and mouth) while in the hallways or open areas in buildings.

HOWEVER, while in class and in College-designated areas such as private offices and confined spaces, all students, faculty and staff need to wear a face covering until further notice.

If you are NOT vaccinated, you need to wear a face covering at all times.

Q: Do I need to complete the health screening?

A: No. The health screening is no longer required.

Q: What are the on-campus dining options?

A: In the VisTaTech Center, you can visit Henry’s, American Harvest and Main Street Café. The Elite Market is at the new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center. Henry’s and the Elite Market, each of which feature grab-and-go meals, snacks and beverages, always will have a self-checkout option where credit cards, debit cards and Apple Pay are accepted. The JC Café in the Jeffress Center is expected to open later this fall.

Q: Can I join the Fitness Center?

A: Yes. The Fitness Center is FREE to all credit students. Stop by the Fitness Center for more information. Membership in the Fitness Center also allows access to the walking track in the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center.

Q: What’s up with the website?

A: You’ve noticed! Yes, we did a little facelift with schoolcraft.edu.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to find those links of you haven’t bookmarked them from before.

In the top navigation bar:

Utilize the A-Z Index for a site map list of links
Utilize the “Info For” dropdown menu for filtered lists of links
Utilize the “Semester Guide” for information such as course schedules and important dates.

If you receive a “404 Page Not Found” error:

Try using the provided search bar to search “legacy content”

Other tips:

WebAdvisor, SCmail, and Blackboard links are located in the footer of the new website pages.
Bookmark or remember these quick links:

*Days and hours subject to change. Go to https://www.waynecounty.com/covid19/vaccination.aspx for the latest information.

August 2, 2021 by mlemon

Positions are available in a variety of locations

Looking for an on-campus job this fall? Schoolcraft College’s Career Services department has several openings exclusively for Schoolcraft College students in a wide variety of locations, including:

Duplication Design Center
Learning Center
Campus offices
Computer labs
Campus cafés
Fitness Center
Bookstore
Library

“Having a job on campus can be a very convenient option for students balancing their academics and work.”
JoAnne Stadnicar, Director, Career Services

“We have several opportunities for students to ‘earn while they learn’ here at Schoolcraft,” said JoAnne Stadnicar, Director, Career Services. “Having a job on campus can be a very convenient option for students balancing their academics and work. Student employment on campus also provides our students with a built-in support network to help them succeed personally and professionally.”

Student hands from to faculty member — Students can “earn while they learn” with an on-campus job at Schoolcraft College.

More information will be shared at an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 11, in the McDowell Student Center.

You also can call 734-462-4421 or email [email protected].

August 2, 2021 by mlemon

Explore all possibilities to help ease the burden

Learning, of course, is the goal of any college experience. Part of that education means familiarizing yourself with some unfamiliar terms. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

As part of an occasional series, we’ll explain phrases, lingo or topics to add to your college vocabulary. We call it “Say What?” If there’s a topic you’d like to see covered, please send suggestions to [email protected].

Today we’ll learn about ways you can pay for school through financial aid.

Think of financial aid as the umbrella term for all the ways to pay for higher education, and it comes in many forms. For just about any sort of financial aid, the starting point is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, which you complete online.

Most students pay for college through a combination of financial aid. Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid team can help answer questions.

A computer screen with the Schoolcraft website open — The homepage of Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid Department is a good starting point for any questions you might have.

For some, filling out the FAFSA is pretty straightforward. For others, it’s a long and involved process. You can save your work, so if you have to stop, that’s OK.

Basic information to have handy includes:

Your social security number
Your driver’s license number
Federal tax return (Student/Parent when applicable)
Anything else that shows reported income
The school you’re attending or interested in attending

It’s best to file the FAFSA as early as possible. Again, as the name states, it is free to fill out – no fees whatsoever.

Getting back to student financial aid, there are five main types:

Federal Grants: Requires a FAFSA application. Grants are need based and given without repayment requirements.
Federal Work Study: Requires a FAFSA application. This program allows students to earn money to pay for their college education. These positions are not guaranteed.
State Programs: State-sponsored programs such as Tuition Incentive Program, Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS), Michigan Education Trust (MET) and Michigan Education Savings Plan (MESP).
Scholarships: Are given without repayment requirements but may have many factors involved in meeting requirements, often need and academic levels. There is a separate application required. A number of scholarships may require that a student has completed a FAFSA.
Loans: Requires a FAFSA application. Funds are available to both students and their parents. All loans must be repaid with interest. Repayment begins when you are no longer attending college at a part-time credit level or graduation.

It’s best to explore your options and possibilities with each source and use each to best advantage. Most students pay for college through a combination of financial aid. Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid team can help answer questions.

Looking into scholarships

Schoolcraft College currently has over 300 scholarships for students. Non-traditional students and those from underserved populations are especially encouraged to explore what’s offered.

Keep in mind that these are just the start – many entities offer scholarships as well. As with working to find the right job or internship, networking skills can help you find scholarships, too. Some students may qualify for the Detroit Promise scholarship opportunity. There are also other scholarship avenues students can pursue like Scholarship America and FastWeb! that lists multiple scholarship opportunities any student can receive.

CARES Act Funding

Schoolcraft College recently received its disbursement from the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act to assist those who incurred financial hardship from the COVID-19 pandemic. The College is now accepting applications for CARES 3 Grant funding to support enrolled and previously enrolled (since March 2020) students who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

To apply for CARES 3 visit Scholarships to see a variety of options.

You will need to complete the General Scholarship Application first and then you can select “Apply To” on the CARES 3 application to answer the additional questions.

Grant overview:

Awards will range from $800 – $1,500 per semester
The grant funds will be awarded based on responses in the application
Students only need to submit one (1) CARES III application for multiple semesters
Award continuation will depend on utilization and availability of funds
Grant will be awarded after confirmation of attendance for the semester

This grant is intended to help students with expenses that may impact their ability to complete their course(s). Applicants will be required to certify that they have coronavirus related financial need for education costs or emergency costs.

Expense examples:

Past due balances
Tuition and fees
Books and supplies
Housing costs
Transportation
Food
Medical and mental health care

Learning about loans

In a general sense, loans are available from two sources: The federal government or lenders. The federal government distributes federal loans at a fixed interest rate. These rates are generally lower to those from a private lender.

A lender such as a bank or other institution offers two types of loans – secured or unsecured. A secured loan is backed by collateral, such as a house or other property or assets. Secured loans basically offer some security for the lender and generally have lower interest rates. Unsecured loans do not have this type of backing and generally have higher interest rates.

Depending on your financial situation, it may be advantageous to have a co-signer for your private loan. In fact, the lending institution may require it.

To learn more

For more information about financial aid at Schoolcraft College, please visit the financial aid webpage at schoolcraft.edu/aid. You can also reach the department via email and phone at [email protected] or 734-462-4433.

August 2, 2021 by Schoolcraft College

Staff from key departments available Saturday, August 7, to assist you

Schoolcraft College will offer “one-stop shopping” to take care of everything students need for the Fall 2021 semester on “Super Saturday” this Saturday, August 7.

New and current students can get help with Admissions, Financial Aid, Academic Advising or Registration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days. Services will be available on site at the McDowell Student Center and by phone.

Department	Phone number
Admissions	734-462-4683
Advising	734-462-4429
Financial Aid	734-462-4433
Registration	734-462-4426

Registration is open now. Classes begin Monday, August. 30.

“We’re pleased to bring back ‘Super Saturday’ to help our students conveniently take care of all their business on one day either by phone or in person at the McDowell Student Center,” said Dr. Laurie Kattuah-Snyder, Chief Student Services Officer.

Services available on each Super Saturday include:

Apply for admission
Take placement tests
Register for fall classes
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Meet with an academic advisor to select courses, discuss majors and find out how close you are to earning your degree

We recommend new students bring:

SAT/ACT scores (if taken in the last three years)
High school and college transcripts (if available)
Photo identification

“We’re pleased to bring back ‘Super Saturday’ to provide additional hours for our students to take care of their business either by phone or in person at the McDowell Student Center,”
Dr. Laurie Kattuah-Snyder, Chief Student Services Officer

For more information, please contact the Answer Center by calling 734-462-4426 or emailing [email protected].

The Schoolcraft College Bookstore will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 7, as well.

The McDowell Student Center is located on the southern end of the main campus in Livonia (Haggerty Road between Six and Seven Mile Roads) and is visible from Haggerty Road.

Free parking is available in both the C (Center) and S (South) parking lots.

July 26, 2021 by Schoolcraft College

Science, the arts, careers and more are explored

Kids On Campus, Schoolcraft College’s popular summer enrichment program for more than 30 years, is off to a flying start this year. Due to the pandemic, the program became Kids Off Campus last year, with activities conducted virtually through Zoom. This summer, however, everyone is thrilled to be back at Schoolcraft.

“Kids, parents and staff are all very excited to have kids on the campus again.”
Michele Bialo, Programming Manager for Personal & Professional Learning.

“Kids, parents and staff are all very excited to have kids on the campus again,” said Michele Bialo, Programming Manager for Personal & Professional Learning. “Campers have been busy on campus exploring a variety of topics and enjoying new experiences.”

Kids on Campus (KOC) opened on Monday, July 12, and continues through Friday, August 13. Visit their website for more information and to register.

Children pre-school age through grade 12 are welcome, with programs generally running from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Before and after care is available, though spots are limited.

The day camps are led by skilled professionals, including Schoolcraft College faculty, in a diverse and dynamic social environment. Hands-on learning experiences that bring out the inquisitive side of even the most hesitant of participants are at the heart of KOC.

Children engage in a whole new experience and enjoy access to computers, math, cultural immersion, acting, the arts, science, writing and career-oriented learning opportunities. Skills workshops are available for those who want to expand academically.

Girl and nurse at medical table — Photo 1

Bialo offered a few Kids On Campus highlights so far:

In Abracadabra – Magic Camp the children enjoyed a magic show by professional magician John Winslow. After seeing John’s show, the kids were inspired to put on a show of their own, which included card tricks, illusions and more.
Kids in Zoocrew hiked the Northville Legacy Trail, enjoyed a live animal show from Animal Magic and learned what they can do to improve the environment.
Camp Scrubs students participated in CPR training, enjoyed a visit to Schoolcraft’s state-of-the art simulation lab and learned about careers in medicine from multiple guest speakers.
For Robotics there are three camps with different grade levels going on at the same time. Each student creates a robot that competes at the end of camp in a robot battle.
In the Inventors camps kids learned all about the invention process from initial design, to patents and prototypes. Kids created inventions to solve important issues. One inventor designed a box for cell phones in cars that zaps the driver who tries to text while driving.
In Curtain Call, students wrote, directed and starred in two original plays.

Of course the campers themselves (and their parents) are the real judges of how successful Kids On Campus is. Here are some reactions:

“KOC is the best camp in the world.” – Esha E.
“This place is amazing and you should join!” – Briana C.
“The best way to spend summer break.” – Cayden M.
“This summer camp is just amazing. You learn a lot, it is nicely organized, and it is just truly one of the most awesome weeks of summer.” – Emma L.
“You will meet many new people and do cool things.” – Sarah U.
“Mercer really enjoyed this week’s camp (more so than I thought he would!), and he has been practicing his skills at home.” – Tim G. (chess student parent)

New name for Continuing Education department

Personal and Professional Learning catalog booklet cover

Kids on Campus is run through Schoolcraft College’s Personal and Professional Learning (PPL) department, formerly called Continuing Education and Professional Development (CEPD). The objective of PPL is to help community members pursue new passions or upgrade professional skill sets through non-credit classes, which has long been an important component of Schoolcraft College.

Registration for the fall semester is now open, and PPL will continue to offer a variety of classes for both virtual students as well as those who prefer to attend class on campus. For example, some yoga classes will be live-streamed for students who prefer to exercise in the privacy of their own homes.

Other classes, such as Italian, will remain virtual because it has become so popular during the pandemic that not all of the students will now fit in a typical classroom.

View the classes online.

View the PPL website. You can email questions to [email protected].

July 26, 2021 by Schoolcraft College

Students share ideas, experiences as they start their career track

Congresswoman Haley Stevens, who represents Michigan’s 11^th District in the U.S. House of Representatives, hosted a student roundtable with fellows in her office’s Summer Leadership Development program and other students on Friday, July 16, in the VisTaTech Center on the campus of Schoolcraft College.

Rep. Stevens was joined by Rep. Darren Soto, of Florida, who is the Chair of the House Future Forum Caucus; Rep. Stevens serves as Vice-Chair and has been a member since 2019.

Established in 2015, Future Forum is a generational caucus that includes 50 young Members of Congress who focus on issues important to younger Americans. Their work is guided by three core principles:

Bridging the divide between young Americans and their government.
Engaging with and empowering young voters.
Inspiring the next generation of leaders in public service.

Michigan’s 11th Congressional District contains portions of Wayne and Oakland Counties. Major cities in the district include several that are part of Schoolcraft College’s district – Canton Township, Livonia, Northville and Plymouth. So having Schoolcraft as the site of the forum was a natural one to listen to the voices of younger people.

“(Schoolcraft College) is a destination in Michigan’s 11th District. This is a destination in Michigan in general for training and educating our workforce and plugging into jobs and opportunities.”
Rep. Haley Stevens, Michigan’s 11th District

“20 percent of our district is under the age of 18 years old,” Rep. Stevens noted. “What’s going on is a real demand for talent. We’ve had a lot of people leave the labor force.

“(Schoolcraft College) is a destination in Michigan’s 11^th District. This is a destination in Michigan in general for training and educating our workforce and plugging into jobs and opportunities.

Rep. Haley Stevens welcomes the attendees to the roundtable.

“The other thing is not just the demand for your talent, but with your skill. How do we connect you with a skill that can never be taken from you?”

Developing a skill, or more to the point, a trade through an apprenticeship, is something that Logan Leinbach did while at Schoolcraft College. Leinbach, who spoke at the forum, is the first Woodwork Manufacturing Specialist apprentice.

This position combines skills from computer numerical control (CNC), computer-aided design (CAD) and bench carpentry. It rose out of a need at Leinbach’s employer, Burke Architectural Millwork in Livonia.

“I sat down with my boss, looked at the apprenticeships, which were very specific, and we took bits and pieces and combined them to create an apprenticeship that’s more broad,” Leinbach said. “I’m also learning project management and some of the higher aspects functions of the company so I’m better set to move up in the company or start my own company because I have knowledge of multiple areas.”

Leinbach was joined by fellow Schoolcraft College student Volkan Salmani, who is majoring in CAD and also works as a manufacturing tech lab assistant at the Manufacturing & Engineering Center.

“I definitely enjoyed the program. It’s really awesome to hear from the other young people about their ideas. It was really great,” he said.

Pamela Linton, Apprenticeship Coordinator for Occupational Programs, and Karen Maxton, Employment and Internship Coordinator for Occupational Programs, attended the forum and know first-hand the struggles employers are having to find skilled workers. They work each day to help connect students to opportunities in business and industry.

“Hearing these young people share their experiences about the challenges students face in learning about a range of post-secondary education and career options was both affirming and motivating,” Linton said. “Affirming in that we are definitely on the right track here at the College in our strong outreach efforts and relationship-building with area middle and high schools. And motivating in that we need to keep working hard to get the word out to students about the many outstanding opportunities available to them, especially at Schoolcraft.”

Maxton echoed Linton’s sentiments and was glad to hear that students are open to exploring a variety of options.

“I truly enjoyed watching Congresswoman Stevens interact with so many young people at her recent Future Forum event at Schoolcraft College,” she said. “Many of the students focused on the need for greater career exploration in high school, particularly in the area of apprenticeships and internships, which we were thrilled to hear.

“We couldn’t agree more that students need to truly understand all of the different career pathways available to them. There are so many in-demand, well-paying careers out there, particularly in the professional trades area, and we appreciate Congresswoman Stevens’ interest in highlighting those opportunities.

Dr. Michele Kelly, Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences, also was an attendee. She was impressed by how engaged the students were.

“Personally, I was inspired by how much our young people were paying attention and how eloquently they were able to articulate exactly what they need from our government representatives,” she said. “Even though some of the attendees were under voting age, it was clear that when it is time their voices will be loud and clear. It gave me a lot of hope for our future and confidence that Schoolcraft is particularly well-poised to be an integral part of such a bright future.”

July 19, 2021 by Schoolcraft College

This piece of high-tech equipment is used in Biology and Metallurgy courses

It sits quietly in Room 175 of the Biomedical Technology building, exuding a formidable presence even when not in operation. Weighing more than 1,800 pounds – nearly a ton – it stands almost 6 feet tall on its pedestal and is approximately 2 ½ feet long and 3 feet deep.

In the scientific and technical community, it’s called the Zeiss Evo LS 15. Less formally, it’s the College’s scanning electron microscope and has been here since 2008.

Melissa Gury, Director of Laboratory Sciences, has been working with the scanning electron microscope, or SEM, since 2014. She’s eager to share its abilities with an even wider audience.

“It’s very rare for a community college to have such a high-tech, industry-standard piece of equipment like this,” Gury said. Gury said she didn’t know of any area community colleges that have an SEM and that some four-year schools and even businesses seek out Schoolcraft to use it.

View a video about the SEM

Infographic pointing out the microscope features — This infographic points out the key features of the scanning electron microscope at Schoolcraft College and how this piece of high-tech equipment works.

What is an SEM?

Unlike the microscope that you might have used in high school biology, a scanning electron microscope uses a beam of electrons instead of light to “see” an image. The process, as explained by Gury, works like this:

SEMs contain electromagnetic lenses that focus the beam of electrons, which is passed across the surface of a specimen.
Electrons bounce off the surface of the specimen and are collected by various detectors that turn this information into a black-and-white image.
Vacuum pumps physically remove air from the chamber so that the electron beam can travel straight to the specimen instead of bouncing off air molecules.
This normally means that to use a traditional detector, the specimen has to be completely dried.
If it is not conductive, it has to be coated in a very small (5-10 nm) layer of a gold-palladium mixture.
Schoolcraft’s SEM has a Variable Pressure Detector and a special aperture that is inserted below the final lens allowing the electrons to come out into the chamber but preventing air from going up into the column.
This allows the SEM to introduce a small amount of research-grade nitrogen gas around the surface of the specimen, meaning the specimen does not have to be completely dry or covered with any other materials.
This can be especially helpful when working with something like a museum specimen or some other item that is rare so it is not harmed during the imaging process.

“Typically, at a university, a student would have to be in a 400-level course or even in graduate school before using a scanning electron microscope.”
Melissa Gury, Director of Laboratory Sciences

What classes use it?

Two classes currently use the SEM: BIOL 140 (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and MET 248 (Metallurgy and Materials Science).

Here’s the course description for BIOL 140, which does not require a prerequisite:

This course emphasizes the principles and modes of operation of the scanning electron microscope and X-ray analysis systems, electron-specimen interactions, elemental analysis, effects of microscope variables on images, image processing, routine maintenance, the use of microscope accessories and digital outputs. In the laboratory, students will prepare and examine inorganic and organic specimens using the secondary, backscatter and variable pressure detectors of the SEM. Students complete a project consisting of the preparation, imaging and analysis of a biological specimen.

“Typically, at a university, a student would have to be in a 400-level course or even in graduate school before using a scanning electron microscope,” Gury said. “With BIOL 140, we’re able to expose our students to amazing technology early in their academic path.”

Here’s the course description for MET 248, which requires MET 153 or department consent:

This course introduces the fundamentals of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Microanalysis used for materials characterization and failure analysis. Topics include microscopy systems and components, safety and maintenance, applications in fractography and materials characterization and failure analysis.

Who else could use it?

Biology researchers as well as businesses and industries connected to metallurgy, geology, forensics and more all could find Schoolcraft College’s scanning electron microscope highly useful. For example, Schoolcraft College is currently assisting an area university student with research into diseases that affected amphibians. (The disease does not affect humans.) The student is able to examine rare museum specimens in a nondestructive manner to perform the research.

Business and industry that need to analyze parts or assemblies for fractures rely on scanning electron microscopes as well. The SEM can analyze the elemental composition, though not the actual “recipe” of components.

“Our scanning electron microscope is another example of how Schoolcraft College is providing the equipment and training to prepare our students for high-tech careers,” Gury said.

July 19, 2021 by Schoolcraft College

He is one of only 72 Certified Master Chefs in the world

Today for “Faculty Spotlight” we’re sitting down with Brian Beland, a Certified Master Chef and our new Culinary Arts Department Chair. He also serves as the Executive Chef at Country Club of Detroit, which has earned distinction as a Platinum Club of America.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Chef Beland, and congratulations on your new role! To start out, could you please tell us about your position at Schoolcraft College, how long you have been with us and what classes you teach?

Brian Beland: Thank you and I appreciate the opportunity to be featured and represent the Culinary Team at Schoolcraft College. I was fortunate to join the Schoolcraft Culinary Team in January 2014. To be honest, I’m still learning on the job the many facets and roles of our department. Some of the highlight responsibilities include continuing the longtime tradition of culinary excellence and pursuit of a hospitality-first culture. I want to be a resource for the students and team members who make the Schoolcraft Culinary experience special and unique. And I want to be both a visionary and facilitator for short- and long-term curriculum and facilities planning for the department.

“The culinary industry and the educational model has been through so much change the last 10 to 15 years. We recognize that we need to maintain our standard of excellences, but also need to review what we are focusing on and how we are providing that to the students.”
Brian Beland, Culinary Arts Department Chair

SC: Please tell us a little about how one becomes a Certified Master Chef. What does attaining that achievement entail?

Brian Beland: For me, the Certified Master Chef process represents a commitment to lifelong learning and self-development. The process itself starts with a dedication to the personal development and refinement of cooking techniques, cuisine philosophy, time management and the desire for continuous improvement. The mindset carries through not only in the kitchen but in all aspects of personal and professional life. The exam itself is an eight-day practical cooking exam supported by levels of professional experience and education. The cooking practicals include: Nutritional, Cold Food Garde Manger, Classical Cuisine, Global Cuisines, Freestyle, Baking and Pastry, Continental European Cuisine and a Market Basket Final.

SC: What prompted your interest in the culinary arts? Did you always want to be a chef?

Brian Beland: In high school I became introduced to the kitchen. Initially, it was not the career path I through I would choose, but after some positive experiences and learning about myself along the way, I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. I chose Michigan State’s Hospitality Business program as an opportunity to continue working in kitchens and also obtain some business background education. I chose all my externships in the kitchen, with my Level 2 experience at Country Club of Detroit. It was in that kitchen I found myself committing myself to the craft and profession. I enjoyed the hustle, the stress, the continual push to get better. It replaced team sports that I had been accustomed to participating in.

Chef Beland teaching teaching a student in the kitchen — Brian Beland has taught at Schoolcraft College since 2014.

SC: Culinary Arts is perhaps the best known program at Schoolcraft College. What is your vision and what are your goals for the department as we move forward?

Brian Beland: Our team’s vision is a pursuit of continuous excellence and preparing the students to be ready to take positions in industry. An initial goal for our team this year is to reboot our program, enrollment and restaurant services as we come out of a difficult one-month stretch that drastically disrupted the hospitality industry. At the same time, we have been working diligently this year on our curriculum. The culinary industry and the educational model has been through so much change the last 10 to 15 years. We recognize that we need to maintain our standard of excellences, but also need to review what we are focusing on and how we are providing that to the students.

SC: What do you like best about teaching at Schoolcraft College?

Brian Beland: Schoolcraft is an amazing place to be associated with. Our kitchen labs are built for individual student learning, allowing us as instructors to provide the opportunity for each student to cook and develop individual skills. As we move into the second year part of the program, students can take the fundamental development learned in year one and apply those skills to full-service restaurant operations and work as a team. It’s a privilege to be a part of a team and institution where the College, administration, Board of Trustees and community all believe in our vision and support our various offerings.

SC: Thank you, Chef Beland. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Brian Beland: Thank you! We look forward to seeing everyone back in the fall!