Beth Starks, director of Adult Education and SUNY Jamestown Community College’s North County Center, believes that sometimes the hardest part of college is getting started. She’s determined the North County Center can make that step easier. 
“Some students need college options that are close to home,” Starks said. “We are that place next door where they can get started without moving or losing time to a long commute. That can make a difference when you have life situations that make it hard to dedicate a lot of time to pursuing a degree or certification.”
At the North County Center, students can take general education classes to work toward a degree, as well as pursue 10-week courses and one-year certificate paths. Comprised of two buildings, the location has class and conference areas, computer labs, a full-size basketball court, and weight room. Even for students who primarily take classes on the Jamestown or Cattaraugus County campuses, the study areas and computer labs at the North County Center are available for use during regular business hours.
Any JCC student can use the campus to accomplish many of the same tasks they might at the Jamestown or Cattaraugus County campuses.
“We’re open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday,” Starks shared. “All the business and enrollment functions, such as completing applications, registering for classes, and even submitting health information, can be done here.”
With Campus Life events happening regularly, and work opportunities available, students at North County Extension Center have a taste of college life available to them, paired with a tight-knit community. Students are better able to build a network of support staff that can quickly feel like family.
“Our center makes college more accessible to everyone in our surrounding area. The computer lab is a huge boost to anyone who might need a quiet space to work – or simply more reliable internet,” Starks added. “People can connect and get one-on-one attention. Students can get help finding an internship and gaining work experience. High school graduates can get help finding their career path, and deciding on programs. Adult learners can find support in balancing work, family, and school.”
Starks is eager for the surrounding community to also become a more integrated part of that family.
“If you see a need in the community that is not being filled, we are a place that can help be part of the solution, so come to us,” Starks suggests. “We are also a space where meetings and events can take place. We encourage visitors, so come and see for yourself!”
Fall semester begins Aug. 21 at JCC. For more information or to register, visit sunyjcc.edu/fall.