News Release

EVENT NEWS / February 7, 2008

Boise State College of Applied Technology Holds 7th Annual Professional Technical Career Expo Feb. 12

The Larry Selland College of Applied Technology at Boise State University will host its seventh annual free professional/technical career information night from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12 in the Student Union Jordan Ballroom at Boise State.

This annual event attracts hundreds of prospective students, teachers, counselors, agency representatives, parents, employers and others from throughout the Treasure Valley. All are welcome to attend; children are also welcome.

Interest in the Selland College programs and enrollment has increased dramatically.

“We are the best kept secret for career training in the Treasure Valley,” said Vera McCrink, interim dean for the college. “When people find out that we offer programs where someone can earn a degree or certificate in 4-24 months and learn on the job, in our simulated training centers and the classroom, they get excited. Adults love to learn by doing and we give them a chance to experience what the job will be like because of all the real world practice offered by our programs.”

The opportunity to complete a certificate or degree in just 4-24 months appeals to many mid-life career changers, as well as graduating high school seniors, who are seeking a program that provides in-demand skills, on-the-job training and hands-on learning at a reasonable cost. Retirees who want to return to the workplace are also a major part of the prospective student base. The college also offers free adult basic education classes throughout the Treasure Valley in reading, writing, math and GED preparation.

Students report positive experiences, repeatedly citing caring faculty and a supportive atmosphere.

“At Selland you are attending a small college within a major university,” said Brittany Blodgett, a recent marketing graduate. “It is the best of both worlds. We get all the benefits of being a Boise State student but our classes are small and everyone fits in.”

Like other colleges, funding limits the number of students who can enroll each year. Anyone who is thinking about attending Larry Selland College in the fall should attend the expo, said Terry Blom, director of enrollment management and student success. Participants are encouraged to stop by the student services booth and pick up the applications for admission and financial aid. The applications are also available online and students can learn how to complete them during the expo.


Most programs (except some health programs) are filled on a first come first served basis and are limited to 20 students or less. Programs are filling up fast. Students who may be unsure about enrolling are encouraged to attend the expo and explore their interests. Submitting an application doees not commit a student to attend.

Attendees are welcome to bring questions about careers, salaries, job opportunities and college. Employers who often hire graduates, instructors and current students will be available at the event to answer questions about career programs, potential jobs and salaries after graduation. In addition, attendees can participate in a mini financial aid and admissions seminar featuring inside tips and strategies for college success at 5:30 p.m. and visitors can enter to win free Bronco merchandise. Representatives from the new College of Western Idaho will also be at the event.

Parking is available in the garage across University Drive on the south side of the Student Union. Teachers are welcome to bring students. Assistance with transportation costs is available. For more information, call Audrey Eldridge at (208) 426-1431 or visit http://selland.boisestate.edu.

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Media Contact: Sherry Squires, University Communications, (208) 426-1563, ssquires@boisestate.edu

Boise State University is emerging as a metropolitan research university of distinction. This transformation is being powered by the university’s first comprehensive campaign to support students, faculty, strategic initiatives, research and infrastructure. That’s why the campaign to raise $175 million in private support is called Destination Distinction.
 

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Last reviewed on Thursday, February 07, 2008