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Transitions Program Overview

What is the Transitions Program?

Transitions is a career planning and college preparation program for single parents, displaced homemakers or women who speak English as a second language. The program helps students develop a career goal, get to know the college and all its resources, make friends, and develop time management and study skills. Students also learn how to apply for scholarships and to develop life-long career development skills.

What services does the Transitions Program offer?

Transitions includes 3 classes: Life and Career Planning, Transition to College, and Life Transitions. Classes include 7 college credits, 6 of which are transferable elective credits, and are almost free. Other services include support groups, mentoring, counseling, resource referrals, and help getting scholarships. Financial assistance may also be available for school-related expenses, depending on fund availability. Program completers who are ineligible for health insurance may qualify for free Kaiser health insurance coverage. The program also offers leadership opportunities, including work and volunteer jobs that help student develop communication and leadership skills.

Can you help me find a better job?

Transitions does not focus on job-search skills. Instead, the program helps you set career goals and prepare for school. Transitions can help you make a plan for short-term training, however, that could lead to a job quickly. If you need to get a job immediately, please contact the college's job search services at Workforce Connections, 503-252-0758. If you become an MHCC student, you can also get help finding a job at the Career Planning and Counseling Center, 503-491-7432.

What is covered in the Transitions classes?

The Transitions classes cover many topics that are designed to help students develop a career goal, prepare for college, and develop self-esteem and good study skills.

HD 90, Transition to College, is a “nuts and bolts” class that helps students develop good time management skills and introduces students to basic college information on financial aid, college services, college layout, and how to pick instructors and classes. The class includes a one-hour discussion group where students can share and receive support on their life transitions.
HD 202, Life Transitions, covers topics related to making life transitions, including self-esteem, communication, relationships, support systems, teamwork, and self care. The class helps students deal with the personal and psychological issues that come up for parents and homemakers who are returning to school.
HD 208, Life and Career Planning, is a career planning class that teaches students how to research and develop career and academic plans, and assists students in developing a 5 year plan and career portfolio. The class can be helpful both for students who have a career goal and those who don’t. A career goal can be researched, confirmed, or changed, and students with many options can learn to narrow focus and make choices.

How long does the program last?

Transitions is a one-term (three month) program offered during fall, winter and spring terms. Additional follow up help is available for as long as needed.

Who is eligible for Transitions?

The program is for single parents, displaced homemaker and women who speak English as a second language. A displaced homemaker is someone who has spent most of their adult life focusing on homemaking and parenting and lacks significant job experience.

How do I decide if Transitions is right for me?

Come to a two hour information session to find out more. Call the Transitions office for the next available session. Pre-registration is not required. You can also review the sheet “Is Transitions right for me?”

Do you have academic or income requirements for admission?

No. You should, however, have at least 9th grade reading and writing skills so you can do the homework required.

What are the hours and dates of Transitions Program Classes?

Classes are scheduled on Wednesdays (3 hours), Thursday (2 hours) and Fridays (3 hours). Most sessions are from 10-1 or 11-1. Check the next term’s college term schedule for current information on class times and dates.

Do you have an evening summer program?

For the first time we will offer a summer evening program July - August 2006. Contact us after that date regarding future plans. Or click here for more information.

What are the benefits of participating?

Transitions helps students develop self-confidence, goals, friendships, support systems, knowledge of the college, and improved study skills. Most students report that they feel better about themselves and do better in school after they finish Transitions. They are able to locate funds, including scholarships, for school. Many Transitions students go on to obtain associates, bachelors and even masters degrees. They also say that they become better role models for their children and develop healthier relationships too.

What happens after Transitions?

After Transitions, the program provides follow up support as students take other college classes. These include a College Success class and other services to help you succeed. Students are also referred to other college services, such as Disability Services, TRIO (The Student Support Services program), tutoring, and other services. After Transitions students may also seek work and volunteer opportunities in Transitions or other campus programs to help them develop job and leadership skills.