Kirtland Wraps up First Ever Kickstart Summer Event
Kirtland Community College concluded a three-week program named Kickstart on June 28. Kickstart provided preparation for students attending college in Fall 2023 and allowed those who participated to experience Kirtland facilities, classes, and programs offered.
“Overall, we’re glad the state provided the funding for this program since it helped a lot of students to get comfortable with what will be expected of them in college while making personal connections with Kirtland’s staff and faculty,” said Kirtland Community College Dean of Liberal Arts John Thiel. “They were able to explore the campus, brush up on the math and English skills prior to the fall semester, and even take on Kirtland’s employees in ladder golf and cornhole on the last day of the program.”
Designed and funded by the state of Michigan, Kickstart is a free summer program providing support for new students planning to attend college in the Fall of 2023. Committed to providing a ‘leg-up’ experience before the start of the academic year, students in attendance were exposed and able to familiarize themselves with Kirtland’s campus, support services, help with the financial aid process, and meet potential new classmates. Covering three weeks with online and face-to-face sessions, students received extra instruction for English and math courses and were awarded essential materials and supplies for the fall semester.
“Students really enjoyed getting to know each other and creating a foundation for good communication as new students,” said Kirtland Community College Admissions Coordinator Cesalee J. Kuffel. “They all know the person they need to find if they need help starting out this fall. They will also have many familiar faces when they return on August 28 for class.”
Students who attended the program received meals, daily gas cards and giveaways, backpacks filled with school supplies and materials, and chances to win additional prizes. The students who completed all requirements, attended each session and registered for Kirtland classes in the fall were given a $1,000 laptop voucher and $1,000 Campus store credit that can be used on their first day of classes.
“For myself, I really enjoyed working with these students,” said Thiel. “They asked great questions and really engaged with the whole program.”
Deemed a huge success by all faculty and Staff involved, Kirtland’s kickstart program had 33 students attend, with 31 completing all assignments and attending every session. During the last day of the program, students were given tours of desired areas of study, met with other faculty and Staff, and participated in a campus-wide scavenger hunt that awarded prizes such as iPads, Beats speakers, and more. With hopes of the state continuing funding for the Kickstart program next summer, Kirtland looks ahead to hosting the event again and remains committed to providing higher education opportunities for all.
