Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adult Reentry?

Adult Reentry assists the new, returning and continuing adult student, approximately 25 years of age and older. Our services include initial orientations, ongoing counseling, free workshops and seminars as well as campus and community referrals and resource information.

I just applied to SRJC. What is my next step?

Your next step depends on your situation. Please review the checklist to see where you are in the process. Your next step could be taking assessment tests, attending an orientation, seeing a counselor, or contacting other resources. It all depends on you.

How can Adult Reentry help me?

Adult Reentry Services is the only program on campus that specializes in addressing the needs and concerns of adult students who are making the transition back to school. By taking advantage of our services, you can be assured of a less stressful reentry process and a more successful completion of your chosen educational goals.

Do I need to attend an orientation to register for classes?

Attending an orientation is not a requirement. However, we believe that prospective students who attend an orientation develop a comfort level with our college programs and procedures--an excellent "first step" and a great foundation for college success!

I've never attended college before, and I am undecided as to a career. Can Adult Reentry help me?

For someone who has never attended college before, we highly recommend you begin your college experience with an Orientation. This will not only give you a foundation for success as a student, but will also prepare you for an eventual counseling appointment. During these orientations, we offer suggestions regarding career exploration that will help you make an educated decision about your future career choice. I'm nervous about attending college.

I'm nervous about attending college. How can you help me overcome my concerns?

You are not alone. Many people encounter barriers when attempting to further their education. Some of those barriers are:

• Fear of the unknown.
• Being overwhelmed by the campus environment.
• Fear of failure.
• Fear that you don't have the commitment.
• The assumption that most students are under 25. (In fact, 60% of the students are 25 or older, the average age is about 37; 24% of the students are over 50.)
• Lack of financial means.
• Lack of time.
• Insufficient or costly childcare.
• Been out of school for a long time.

One of the best ways to ease your anxiety is to attend an orientation. Many questions are answered for you during an orientation. Our orientations are in a small-group, stress-free setting so you will likely develop a level of comfort and confidence about the campus after the orientation. You may also consider going on a campus tour. Our Student Affairs office provides campus tours. Our counselors are here to help you work through your concerns as they have done for thousands of other adults who have gone on to complete their chosen goals. The Adult Reentry staff is available to answer questions and provide resources and information to make your experience here at Santa Rosa Junior College a rewarding and successful one.

Why do I need to see a counselor?

Our Adult Reentry counselors offer you academic, career and personal counseling. Our counselors provide semester-by-semester assistance in your class selections and help with career clarification. The Adult Reentry counselors are particularly sensitive to the problems encountered by the adult student and work closely with adult students in an encouraging and supportive way. They have a wealth of information and experience to draw from to help you with any barrier you may encounter while pursuing your education here at Santa Rosa Junior College. If you wish to take more than 9 units during any semester and you have 24.5 units or less on file, it is required that you get the approval of a counselor to do so. This is to be certain you are staying "on target" with your educational goals.

What services do you offer other than an initial orientation and ongoing counseling?

Our services focus on providing adult students with resources and clear, detailed information regarding issues specific to their situation. Our staff is well-trained in offering appropriate campus and community referrals. We encourage you to access Adult Reentry at any time you have questions or concerns. We are here to offer the assistance you need to make your time at Santa Rosa Junior College a positive and fulfilling experience.

How do I find out about financial aid for school? What types are available?

You will find information about financial aid by visiting the Web site for our Financial Aid Office. Information on scholarships and grants is available by visiting our Scholarship Programs Web site.

Questions and comments about this page contact hzarate@santarosa.edu.