Student Support
Academic Advising
North Shore Community College is committed to student success by ensuring that all students are assessed and placed in courses which are appropriate to their academic skills. Students who cannot document proficiency (see Basic Skills Core/Proficiency Requirements) are required to complete Computerized Placement Tests (CPTs) to establish current ability in reading, writing, and math. The results of CPTs are used to determine appropriate course placement. These tests also verify communications and/or math proficiency for courses listing these as prerequisites. Students may drop in for testing at the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing on either campus. Review materials are available in the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing, in the Student Support and Advising Centers or online.
Results of placement tests may indicate need for courses in reading, writing, and/or math at the pre-college level. These foundation classes are designed to prepare students for college level courses required for a degree or certificate program. These courses are developmental in nature and do not count toward a degree or certificate and are not transferable to another college.
Students whose first language is not English are assessed in the Center for Alternative Studies and Educational Testing to evaluate their English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and to determine appropriate placement into ESL classes.
The Student Support & Advising Center
Danvers and Lynn Campuses
The Student Support and Advising Center is dedicated to helping all students realize their fullest academic and personal potential. Comprehensive services are available to help students clarify goals, identify career interests and learning styles, build confidence and academic skills, overcome obstacles to personal development, and promote academic success. Hours are posted at each campus location and on the web at
www.northshore.edu/support_center/.
Career Exploration
Focusing on a specific career goal often provides the necessary focus for a student to be successful. Several career exploration services are available. The Student Support and Advising Center has a computerized career exploration system called Mass CIS DISCOVER. Students use this program to explore career options and meet with an academic counselor throughout the process to set flexible educational and career goals.
Career Placement
The staff in the Career Placement Office offers a professional approach to achieving job and career goals. Students and alumni are offered assistance with competitive resume preparation and cover letters, techniques for successful interviewing, and handling workplace challenges and situations. In addition, access to local, regional and national jobs are available. Students or alumni looking for additional information are encouraged to set up an appointment at the Career Placement Office.
For more information, call the Career Placement Coordinator, 978-762-4000 x2167 / x5565 or 781-477-2167 or 781-477-2104.
Counseling
Counseling services provide students with the support they need to set and achieve realistic and satisfying educational and life goals. Students may schedule individual appointments at the Student Support and Advising Center to determine appropriate support and planning strategies, to gain information about themselves as learners, and about handling the stresses of adjusting to college. A range of group sessions and workshops are conducted on issues relating to learning, job preparation, and personal management. Referral for in-depth counseling is also available on request.