Dear Riverbats,
Welcome to the start of the spring semester. As Chancellor of Austin Community College District, I am thrilled you are here. ACC is a wonderful place to learn. Our faculty and staff care deeply about you and your success. We want you to feel supported, connected, and loved.
I know the first few days of the semester can feel overwhelming. You’re adjusting to a new schedule. You’re learning your way around our campuses. So, I want to give you some tips and connect you with resources that can help.
First — let’s talk about money. Paying for college is one of the biggest challenges our students face. Data show that 59 percent of our students experience financial stress. We don’t want that to be a barrier. Our Financial Aid teams are here to help you find money to pay for classes and life expenses so that you can stay on track. You might face an unexpected financial burden this semester. It happens. You’re not alone. That’s where ACC’s Student Emergency Fund can help. It gives you support fast so you can cover those costs and stay enrolled. We also have scholarships. It’s a great way to plan ahead. Our scholarship season just opened. You can apply early and get priority consideration for the fall.
Second, I encourage you to get involved. There are so many free resources at ACC. Our tutoring and library services are available 24/7. You can meet with an academic coach or someone from our Career Services Office to get ahead. ACC’s Student Life Office has a ton of organizations and events where you can find a network and create lasting memories. We’re also creating a new Student InfoHub website where you can learn all about what’s happening at ACC and find events and activities to make the most of your time here. It should launch later this month.
Finally, I want you to know that we’re here for you. The semester ahead is full of hope. As you navigate each day, remember that you are smart, ambitious, and capable. Please watch our welcome video below. I wish you a successful and joyful spring!
Much love,
russell
Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart
Chancellor
Austin Community College District