COLLEGE SUCCESS PROGRAM NEWSLETTER
May 2020
CollegeTracks MM/DD/YY

Shout out to all of CollegeTracks Success graduates!!!! CONGRATULATIONS on completing your degrees and staying the course in your educational journeys!!! You have displayed extraordinary grace, flexibility, and resilience in this last semester of college. We know that you will go on to do exciting things in the future!

Shout out to all CollegeTracks Success scholars -- we know you are all making so many adjustments and handling so many responsibilities during this crisis. It hasn't been easy -- kudos to you for hanging in there!

Shout out to all of Coach Nneka's MC students who have been accepted to UMD or UMD @ USG: Aleena Natividad, Gaby Maya, Simmi Gonsalves, Heshara Kaluwitharana, Joselyn Morales

Shout out to  Liliana Blanco-Martinez for earning her drivers license.

Shout out to Nicolas Argueta for completing an internship with the Library of Congress and earning an internship with Microsoft.

Shout out to Stefanny Guererro Assan for graduating college and accepting a job offer.

Shout out to Hilena Kesete of Towson University for maintaining and completing her internship even while schools and work sites are teleworking. Kudos to you for showing tenacity and determination during this time.   

Shout out Yvan Rodrigu Nchoungou Moundou and Adonay Villalta, who are both graduating from Montgomery College and Stephenie Abeysinghe for being accepted to UMD.

Shout out to Selom Kalin-Samlan, Human Resources Management major, who was awarded the Entrepreneurship Scholarship from Thiel College! 

Shout out to  Natalie Morales , junior from Towson University, who was accepted into the competitive Special Education Dual Certification Program for Fall 2020. Natalie was also recognized by the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for her commitment to scholarship, leadership and service. We're so proud of you!

COACH Q & A:
" What is something you have witnessed recently that has reminded you that life is good?
 
    Ms. Jenni 
"I'm incredibly proud of all of our students who are graduating. It's tough enough to transfer to a new school, or to join the workforce, or graduate school, but to do it during uncertain times is even harder. They've all shown a lot of resilience and grit by pushing through despite less than ideal circumstances. I think they're all incredible."
                        
                                 Ms. Nneka
    
"I have taken a lot of long walks with my daughter recently and have noticed so many trees, plants and flowers in my neighborhood. Every year the same vegetation is right in front of me, but I am so busy that I barely notice it. There is actually a cherry blossom tree that is blooming right in front of my bedroom window! This is my silver lining and proof that I needed this time to slow down and literally smell the roses."

Ms. Rachel
"I walk my dog every morning in the woods. All the recent rain has made the leaves and grasses explode into a vibrant, almost-electric green. It is a great way to start my day and a reminder that the planet has so much beauty!"

Ms. Fenise 
  
"Recently, I witnessed a 5 year old boy sing a song called "Don't Worry About A Thing"  --  a reggae song by the great Bob Marley. His sincerity in his sweet delivery made me smile and remember that things are difficult and even painful right now, but soon, every little thing will be alright."

Mr. Dennis
                     
"Having spent so much time isolated has actually allowed me to slow down and recognize the simple blessing of having a home to self isolate in with basic essentials like clean running water as so many around the world are not as fortunate, even before this pandemic."

Ms. Courtney
   
"Truthfully, job security is a real concern for many people right now. The outlook is a bit uncertain. With that said, fortunately, I have had several friends secure new jobs within the past couple of weeks! I'm very thankful and happy for them."

Ms. Destiney
"I have been seeing pictures and videos showing how our earth has been getting a MUCH needed break from pollution. Skylines and bodies of water have cleared and endangered species are procreating. This reminds me that life is good when we are good to Mother Earth."
              
Ms. Victoria

"Whether I'm out running on the trails or I'm driving through my parents neighborhood to bring them groceries, I am seeing so many kids learning how to ride bikes. Families are going out on walks and getting crafty to write signs on their fences and doors. The togetherness and simplicity of everything is really warming my heart."

Ms. Bijal
"Recently, I read that a farmer in rural Kansas donated an extra N95 mask that he found in his home to the mayor of New York City to give to a medical professional working on the front lines of the pandemic. It was a small but not insignificant act of generosity. Stories like this one and more -- of people sewing masks for others, donating meals, shopping for elderly and immuno-compromised neighbors, and generally coming up with creative ways to be kind that remind me that life is good."

Ms. Nicole
 "I recently witnessed two kids riding their bikes in my neighborhood. They were laughing and seemed to be having a great time, which brought me so much joy."

Mr. Kendrick
 
"Knowing that my family is healthy and safe during these uncertain times, has truly given me a reason to be thankful and appreciate the value of life."
HERE'S HOW YOU CAN BOOK YOUR CHECK INS WITH YOUR COACH:

1) Look at your schedule to see when you're available for a one-hour check in.

2) Go to your coach's youcanbook.me link or method of booking listed (below).

3) Choose an appropriate time slot and fill out the necessary information. Note where your coach will be that day.  For texting or emailing requests, provide a few different choices of dates and times to your coach. 

4) Book it! A confirmation will be sent to your email. Now, put that check in on your calendar and set your reminder.
 
Ms. Jenni:

Ms. Nneka:
Text directly to: 240-630-1224 

Ms. Rachel:
Text directly to: 240-242-5423
                         Mr. Dennis:

Ms. Courtney: 

Ms. Destiney: 
  T ext directly to:  202-695-3718

Ms. Victoria:
vwolk.youcanbook.me or 240-646-5433

Ms. Bijal:
bparikh.youcanbook.me or 240-207-1252

Ms. Nicole:
nmalament.youcanbook.me or 240-200-4214

Mr. Kendrick:
kjoyner@collegetracksusa.org or 202-350-1376
Join Our Mailing List

****************************************************************************************************
We are living in a world that none of us could have imagined when 2020 began. The COVID-19 crisis presents unprecedented challenges in our lives - we have all been affected by this global pandemic. 
We know from a recent survey that we distributed to each of you that half of you have either lost your job, are worried about losing your job, or are concerned about your parents losing their jobs. Some of you are struggling with wifi issues or food insecurity. Many of you feel anxious or depressed due to the uncertainty and loss that COVID-19 has brought into our lives. And we know that many of you are not thrilled about having your courses move on-line. COVID-19 has disrupted our daily routines and our plans. 
And yet, I am very proud of each of you for pushing forward. Flexibility is more important now than ever, and all of you have shown tremendous adaptability and perseverance in the last month. I know from personal experience how hard it is not to participate in many of the activities that bring us joy, relaxation, or fun. However, during times like this, I try to remember, "This too shall pass." Maybe it won't pass as quickly as we'd like, but there will be a time when we can gather again, hug our friends, and not have to leave the house wearing face-masks. Until then, please do all you can to keep you and others safe and healthy. Know that it's okay not to feel okay. Call your Success Coach. We are here, and we care about you. You might be socially-distanced, but you are not alone. 
Warmly, 
Ms. Jenni
College Success Director
 
During this shutdown and uncertain times we want to make sure that you all have access to community resources. We will continue to research and advocate for the support of all students.
Here are just some of the many resources being provided by local agencies, Montgomery County, the State of Maryland, and the Federal Government. Please reach out to your coach for more information on these resources or any others that you or your family need.
 
EVERYMIND
During this time of heightened anxiety, we know that you or a loved one may need someone to talk to. Their phone, text and chat call specialists are available 24/7 to listen and provide support. You can call/text 301-738-2255. This service is free and open to all members of the community. You do not have to be in crisis to connect with them. The website also has strategies on how to cope with stress and anxiety.

Additional Mental Health 

Located in Montgomery County, MD. You can also call 240-777-4000 24 hours a day.

For free, confidential help on weekdays from 8:30am-5:00pm you can contact either the Family Justice Center at 240-773-0444 or the Abused Person Program at 240-777-4195. You can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 at 1-800-799-72300 or text "LOVEIS" to 22522. 

Montgomery County's Health and Human Services Emergency Assistant Relief Payment

Food Access
The list below has up-to-date information on how and where you can access food for your family.

WIC
All CCI WIC Centers are closed to the public, however, they continue to provide all essential services (appointments, benefits, support services) via phone:  301-762-9426.

Provides relevant information about food assistance resources, and opportunities for individuals and organizations to support community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.  A  Spanish version is also available. 

Currently distributing food on our regular schedule at all of their distribution sites. Call 301-424-1130 by 3 PM the day before you want to pick up, to schedule your appointment. Eligibility for food remains every 30 days. All food will be pre-packed (a healthy mix of fresh, frozen and shelf-stable foods). When you arrive please hold up, not hand, your ID to a Manna staff or volunteer. The Manna staff or volunteer will sign their name on your behalf. 

Providing grab and go bags to people through their multiple partners. Make sure to expand the "Community Hub Partners & Locations" to see all distribution sites and hours. 

Shepherd's Table
Providing meals (and to-go boxes) twice a day from March 16-29: brunch 10:30 am-12 pm and dinner 6-7:30 pm. Their Resource Center will be open twice during the day, providing mail, toiletries, bus tokens, blankets and more.

Call 301-330-0222 to schedule an appointment Monday through Friday from 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Plan and schedule your pick-up 24-48 hours ahead to request your choice of appointment. No walk-in or same-day appointments are available at this time. Bring a photo ID. 

Food (including baby food) and Toiletries Bank. Operating under their normal schedule. When you go to pick up food, please do not assemble in the waiting room. They are serving clients one at a time on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please remain outside until the previous client exits. Contact: 301-216-2510

Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am4pm. Bring proof of Montgomery County residency and own bags. Contact: 301-942-1790

It offers meals for the elderly and people with disabilities. You have to call to sign-up to have meals delivered. Meals are delivered in the morning and they include lunch and dinner. For more information visit the  Rockville or  Germantown.

Meal Packages at Drop Boxes at the UMBC campus. Contact  retrieveressentials@umbc.edu

Children up to 18 years old may come to any of these locations to receive a nutritious meal. No appointment is necessary. Meals will be provided in a Grab-and-Go format. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. MCPS will also be distributing weekend backpack food sacks on Fridays from 11-12.

Frederick County Emergency Meals
Children aged 18 and younger and adults enrolled in the county's education program for people with disabilities qualify for free breakfast and lunch from the school system. Breakfast will be available on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and lunch will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The school system is also delivering lunches to community sites.

Prince George's County Emergency Meals
 
Grab-and-go lunches will be available around lunch (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) daily between March 16 and March 27 at the various locations.

Free meals will be available  to students every weekday during the closure from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 16 sites throughout D.C.

Anne Arundel Emergency Meals
Three meals a day will be provided at 31 school sites from noon to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mobile meal vehicles will deliver meals to 21 additional sites in six communities on weekdays. Any public school child can receive a single meal each day at no cost. Children must be between the ages of 2 and 18. Adults cannot accept the food on behalf of the child.

Carroll County Emergency Meals
Children 18 and younger qualify for free meals through the school system whether they're enrolled or not. They must be present for pick-up.



Finals Season 2020: Maintaining Motivation During Quarantine

With the Spring 2020 semester wrapping up, it can be hard to keep the same motivation that you may have felt upon returning to school in January. Here are 4 ways to maximize your studies in the remainder of the semester.
 
1. Prepare in Advance 
Start reviewing your notes now to avoid a late night cram session. Studying in advance not only improves your ability to retain and recall study material, but it will also help ease pre-exam anxiety since you know that you worked your hardest. 
 
2. Attend Office Hours  
Online school does not mean that your professor and TA's are unavailable. If your professor has regularly scheduled office hours online, try attending a session to clarify any material that you may be struggling with. If your professor's office hours are by appointment, do not hesitate to reach out and schedule a session. The instructor will appreciate the work that you are putting into their class, and they will be happy to help you. 
 
3. Educate your family   
Many students in the Success Program have discussed the difficulty of completing work and studying with their families home. If you find that your family responsibilities or general noise levels at home are making it difficult to prepare for finals or take exams, talk to members of your family; let them know that the next 2-3 weeks are going to require more attention in order to finish the semester. It may be an uncomfortable subject but let your family know what you need from them in order for you to not only make the most of the remaining semester but to also make them proud when they see your transcript.  
 
4. Take Care of Yourself  
With school and work schedules out of order, it may have become increasingly difficult to keep to a consistent sleep or meal schedule. Even in quarantine, however, sleep remains just as crucial as it was in previous semesters. Consistent sleep leads to a longer attention span, improved memory, and enhanced mood. Likewise, make sure that you are getting enough food to support your health and studies. If you are struggling to keep a sleep schedule or feel that you are in additional need of food resources, reach out to your Success Coach today. 
   
 
MHEC 2020-21
GA Grant Extension date is June 1, 2020 The new deadline   will also be updated on the website and on the applicants'  To Do List  in the MDCAP System.  MHEC will only accept documentation for the GA Grant program by  mail . All required documentation must be submitted by June 1 , 2020  to the following address:

 Maryland Higher Education Commission
 Ground Floor Suite
 Office of Student Financial Assistance
 6 N. Liberty Street, Ground Suite
 Baltimore, MD  21201


      Scholarship               Deadline                  Amount             Who is Eligible
Writing the Future Scholarship 5/7/20 $500 3.0 GPA
US Citizen, Permanent Resident, or DACA Recipient
Texts=Wrecks Scholarship 5/13/20 $1000 3.0 GPA
US Citizen, Permanent Resident, or DACA Recipient
MILK US Student Scholarship 5/31/20 $5000 No Citzenship requirements*
-- 


School  Career Center Events Calendar 

 

Montgomery College

Explore databases/resources from the MC Library, such as Ferguson's Career Guidance Center

Frostburg
 State

  • May 7: Virtual Times Talk 
https://www.frostburg.edu/student-life/campus-services/career-and-professional-development-center/events.php

Goucher
Schedule a virtual appointment today! 

Hood
Create a Handshake account to attend virtual campus events today!
https://www.hood.edu/student-life/catherine-filene-shouse-center-career-development-experiential-education

McDaniel
Schedule a virtual appointment today! 

Morgan State Univ.

Create your eBear account today for various opportunities!

Salisbury
Schedule a virtual appointment today!
https://webapps.salisbury.edu/calendars/Program/calendar.asp?ID=17

Towson
Connect with TU Alumni who can offer relevant career advice on the Tiger Mentor Network!

UMBC
Schedule a virtual appointment today!

Univ. of Maryland

  • May 7: Intro to the Peace Corps Webinar 
  • May 13: Bank of America Careers Panel 

Note: 

*
Check in with your campus career center to see what online job database is offered. Many have adopted HANDSHAKE. Work with an advisor to help complete this profile and other ejob profiles. 
  
Scholars,
You must be relieved to know that the end of the semester is just around the corner. We hope that you are in touch with your Success Coach and you are aware of the resources that MC has to offer. Please reach out for help or a listening ear if you need support during this challenging time. You are not alone and we encourage all students to identify someone or something that can be of support to you. 

Summer session registration is open now and  Fall 2020 registration will open on  Monday, May 11. Listed below are some important resources and dates.


Go here for information about MC Student Emergency Assistance Funds to help students who have been impacted by COVID-19 and need helping purchasing a computer, food, tuition/fees, etc.

Go here for MC grading policy changes, especially for students who have had academic challenges due to COVID-19 and taking online classes.


May 4: Fall 2020 Priority registration opens

May 11: Fall 2020 General registration opens

May 22: Official end of spring semester/academic year

May 25: Official beginning of summer sessions

June 8: Summer session I classes begin and run through July 10.  Courses will be online only .

July 11: Summer Session II classes begin and run through August 21
*Summer Session II  will consist of a combination of online and face-to-face courses-assuming that the public health emergency allows for this.

August 21: Official end of summer sessions

August 31: Fall Classes begin  

*If you need Internet Access or Financial Assistance, talk to your Success Coach about how to get connected to these resources.*
 
*MONTGOMERY COLLEGE-SPECIFIC INFORMATION*



THANK YOU FOR READING THE SUCCESS PROGRAM'S E-NEWSLETTER!

CollegeTracks College Success Program Team:
MS. JENNI ADAMS
MS. NNEKA ONYILOFOR
MS. RACHEL LOSTUMBO
MS. FENISE DUNSON
MR. DENNIS TURNER
MS. COURTNEY RILEY
MS. DESTINEY AVENT
MS. VICTORIA WOLK
MS. BIJAL PARIKH
MS. NICOLE MALAMENT
MR. KENDRICK JOYNER

                                                                                                                   @scholarsCT                                                            CollegeTracks.                                                                   CTscholars 
                                                                                        Success.Program