New Student Orientation www.ATLANTATECH.edu

1. Voted "The Best Community College" by Washington Monthly New Student Orientationwww.ATLANTATECH.edu

2. President’s Welcome The faculty and staff at Atlanta Technical College welcome you as the newest member of our college family! You have joined a college community that is focused on your academic and career goals, and we want to work with you to ensure your success. You are a valuable asset to the Atlanta Technical College community, and your life will be transformed by your • experiences here. At the same time, this college community will also be enriched because of you. We welcome your leadership, scholarship, service, creativity and involvement. I invite you to witness the power of an education from Atlanta Technical College to become what you are meant to be! Dr. Alvetta Peterman Thomas President

3. General Information Atlanta Technical College (Atlanta Tech) began offering its first programs in 1968. Atlanta Tech is a public post-secondary college, under the governance of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), a consortia of 26 technical colleges strategically located throughout the state of Georgia. Atlanta Tech’s designated service are includes the city of Atlanta, Fulton County south of the Chattahoochee and Clayton County. Atlanta Tech’s training programs are fully accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

4. Education for Everyone Atlanta Tech offers opportunities to people 16 years or older to include: Recent high school graduates, Men and women currently in the workforce, Persons returning or entering college for the first time, and Veterans

5. Warranty Policy We guarantee that when you graduate from your program of study that you will be prepared for the career in which you were trained—if not, we’ll re-train you with FREE tuition!

6. ACADEMIC CALENDAR The academic calendar is from: July 1- June 30 of each fiscal year Atlanta Technical College and other Technical College System of Georgia schools are switching to semesters beginning Fall 2011. Click here for more information. The academic calendar is updated and published in the College Catalog. Visit www.atlantatech.edu for additional updates.

7. Grading Policy Grades are issued at the end of each semester. A grade of “C” or better is required in all courses for graduation. Grade Numerical Equivalent Grade Points A 90-100 /4 B 80-89 / 3 C 70-79/ 2 D 60-69/ 1 F 0-59/ 0

8. Work Ethics A work ethics grade is also issued for each course and is designed to evaluate and encourage good work habits. You will be evaluated based on the following characteristics. • Attitude • Organizational Skills • Communication • Cooperation • Respect • Attendance • Character • Teamwork • Appearance • Productivity

9. Career Placement Services The Career Placement Services Office conducts workshops each semester for students to disseminate information on the availability, scope, and use of career placement resources. They provide access to on-line resources to assist with job placement resources such as Erecruiting (http://atlantatech.erecruiting.com) Computer labs are available on a first come, first serve basis Interviewing and resume assistance are available CPS also offers Campus Recruiting Days where businesses come to campus in search of potential employees.

10. Career Placement Services Contact Information Email: careerplacement@atlantatech.edu Campus Location: Suite D128 Phone: 404-225-4470/ 4449 Director, Michael Burnside Career Evaluator, Cathy Clements Career Support Assistant, Carolyn Sanders

11. Learning Support Center (LSC) Offers free tutoring in: 1) Learning Support: English, Math, and Reading (096-098) 2) General Education Courses 3) English, Math, and Reading for Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL 091-094) Seminars and Workshops Learning Support Counselors Open Study Area Open Computer Lab • Contact: Ronald Laws • Learning Support Specialist • learningsupport@atlantatech.edu • 404.225.4628 • Room 2118

12. Learning Support (continued) College 099 Student Success Seminar Course is for all Learning Support Students (096 – 099) 2 credit hours Sample Topics include time management, learning styles, study skills and more.

13. General Educational Development Diploma (GED) Did you know that GED testing is available at Atlanta Technical College? If you are enrolled in one of the programs which does not require a high school diploma for admission, remember you must attain your diploma or GED before completing your program of study. The fee is $95 for all five tests, $19 for a single subject area. • Contact: Mrs. Marilyn Arrington, GED Chief Examiner • 404.225.4468

14. Open Computer Labs Room 2118 is open from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm (Mon–Thurs) Room 1118 (Library) is open 7:45 am – 9:00 pm (Mon–Thurs) Center for Excellence and Lifelong Learning (New Connections Building) 8 am – 3 pm (Mon – Thurs)

15. Library & Media Services The library/media center supports all areas of instruction offered by Atlanta Technical College, providing print and non-print resources (books, periodicals, videotapes, computer software, computers, etc.), facilities, and services to all faculty, staff, and students. Inter-library loan services are available, and patrons have access to a variety of computer resources including indexes to periodicals, full-text newspapers, on-line access to library catalogs, the Internet, CD-ROM workstations, and several computers for word processing. Flexible scheduling permits individuals and groups to use the center as needed. Students must present a current valid student ID in order to borrow materials. The library is a place of study for students. For this reason, eating, drinking, unattended children, radios, cell phones, or unnecessary noises are prohibited. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. To access library services online: www.atlantatech.org/current_students/library.html

16. Student Activities • The Accounting Club • Club Metro 1560 • Delta Epsilon Chi (DEX) • Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership • (GOAL) • Halle International Exchange Program • International Club

17. Student Activities (Continued) • Millennium Club • National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) • Student Government Association (SGA) • Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) • Skills USA • Student Leadership Council • Program Clubs • Contact: Mr. Jessean Banks • Student Activities Coordinator • 404-225-4629 jbanks@atlantatech.edu

18. Early Childcare Center The Center provides: • A safe and healthy learning environment • Nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch & snack), • Activities, materials, and equipment which are age and developmentally–appropriate • A creative curriculum for infants, toddlers, 3 years old & Pre-kindergarten. • An open door policy, which supports open communication between children, adults, the community, and the centre staff. • A staff that serves children ages: 7 months – 5 years old, • An environment that encourages creativity through a variety of art experiences Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Contact: Dr. Marsha Whittle, Center Director404.225.4581 mwhittle@atlantatech.edu 18

19. Student Photo Identification For security purposes, students are required to carry their college identification card whenever on campus, or when participating in college activities. Student photo identification cards are made throughout registration and on Mondays in Room 2126. Check with Student Affairs for an updated schedule. Students will be required to present the college identification card when using the library and other campus facilities and should be able to present it upon the request of a college official.

20. College Security Atlanta Technical College works to help you maintain your personal safety and to protect your property by providing security and safety services. Each year, Atlanta Technical College publishes its crime statistics according to the guidelines of the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Police and Campus Crime Statistics Act. The Campus Crime Report is available online at http://www.atlantatech.edu/student_info/CampusCrimeStatisticsReport.html . Campus security also: • Maintains Lost and Found • Issues parking decals and lockers • Regulates parking • Patrols the halls and parking lots • Checks student ID’s Safety is everyone’s business - Be Alert! Report incidences immediately to a security officer.

21. Parking Decal Parking decals are required for all vehicles parked on campus. These decals may be obtained from the Business Office located in the Cleveland Dennard Building across from the Admissions and Student Financial Aid offices. The cost is $15; $23 beginning August 23, 2011.

22. Bookstore Information • The bookstore is in room 2122 located in the second floor lobby of the Academic Complex across from the auditorium. New and used textbooks, supplies, related course items, academic computer supplies, Atlanta Tech paraphernalia, clothing, and other items are available for your convenience. STORE HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Hope and Pell Charge Dates: • Tuesday, August 23 - Thursday September 1, 2011 Third Party Charge Dates: • Tuesday, August 23 - Thursday September 8, 2011 TO ACCESS YOUR FINANCIAL AID ACCOUNT IN THE BOOKSTORE PLEASE PRESENT A VALID ATLANTA TECH I.D. OR GOVERNMENT I.D. FORMS OF PAYMENT: • Visa, MasterCard, Check (with Government Issued I.D.)  22

23. Special Needs Survey Students requiring accommodations must inform the Special Needs Coordinator before the service is provided. Official documentation is required. You may also click here to complete the State Enrollment System Information Form. The first section is for those individuals who may have a psychological, medical or learning disability. The second section is for those individuals who have not been able to find employment, or lost their job or who are single parents. Examples of services include: Interpreters, note takers, desk adjustments, computer visual aids, special equipment • For Special Needs • Contact: Ms. Sylvie Moses • 404-225-4434 smoses@atlantatech.edu

24. Student Conduct Code Students are responsible for following all of the rules outlined in the Student Handbook. Drug Free Campus – no drug use or possession of weapons are allowed on campus. Violations of the Student Conduct Code may result in suspension or expulsion from the College. Sexual Harassment is prohibited! Student Right to Know

25. Angel On-line Courses • Angel on-line orientation is: • August 23 at 10 am, 2 pm, or 5 pm • August 24 at 10 am, 2 pm, or 5 pm • August 25 at 10 am or 2 pm • August 26 at 1 pm Students enrolled in an online class should have an email account prior to the first day of class. You are responsible for emailing your instructor to verify your attendance. • Online Learning Website • http://www.atlantatech.edu/online.htm

26. Student Financial Aid

27. APPLY FOR AID TODAY • Workshops are held every Tuesday from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. and • Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Workshops are not held during • new student registration. • For the HOPE Grant, apply online atwww.GAcollege411.org • Only a 2 – 4 Day Process • For the PELL Grant, apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov . The process • takes 2 – 4 Weeks. Student and Parent Tax Forms are REQUIRED to • Complete the Application

28. Student Financial Aid Office 2011-2012 Academic Year (July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012) FINANCIAL AID COUNSELORS Financial Aid Counselors are available to assist students in completing the financial aid process. Counselors are assigned based on the student’s last name. Last Names Beginning A-J: Ms. Julia Byron (404-225-4720) Last Names Beginning K-Z: Ms. Cheryl Billups (404-225-4717)

29. OTHER FINANCIAL AID CONTACTS GSFAPPS: www.GAcollege411 1-800-505-4732FAFSA: www.fafsa.ed.gov 1-800-433-3243 Selective Service: www.sss.gov 1-888-442-4551Income Tax Documentation: 1-800-829-1040

30. Financial Aid Programs and Application Process2011-2012 Academic Year (July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012) APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID Students at Atlanta Technical College (ATC) are encouraged to apply for the federal and state Student Financial Aid (SFA) programs that are available to assist with educational costs. The following financial aid information will provide you with an overview of the programs available, the eligibility criteria, and the application process. Additional information and/or clarification of the SFA programs are available in the Financial Aid Office. Please note that the information contained herein is based on federal, state and/or institutional policies which are subject to change. STUDENT LOANS Atlanta Technical College does not participate in the Federal Student Loan Program. The Financial Aid Office cannot certify student loan applications HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT DOCUMENTION The student’s high school transcript and/or prior college transcript must be on file in the Atlanta Tech Admissions Office prior to the student receiving financial aid funding

31. Federal Financial Aid Programs Federal PELL Grant Program (PELL) The PELL Grant Program provides assistance to students who demonstrate financial need as defined by the U. S. Department of Education. PELL recipients must be enrolled in an eligible program of study and must not have attained a baccalaureate degree or a first professional degree. The maximum award amount for 10-11 is $5550.00. Recipients must be enrolled in an eligible program of student. The award amount each term is based on the number of enrollment hours each term. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) This program is designed to ‘supplement’ the grant assistance awarded to students with the highest PELL eligibility. Funds are limited and based on the school’s allocation received each year. Since funds at Atlanta Tech are limited, students who meet the priority deadline date for applying for federal aid have the greatest chance of receiving FSEOG. Federal Work Study (FWS) Program The FWS Program provides part-time employment. FWS students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or greater. FWS offers exposure to real work experiences, development of positive work ethics and time management skills. Students interested in participating in this program must complete an ATC FWS application in addition to the FAFSA.

32. State Financial Aid Programs Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE) Scholarship Program The HOPE Grantis available to students enrolled in a certificate or diploma program of study. Recipients are eligible for a maximum of 63 semester hours of HOPE Grant Payment. Effective fall semester, HOPE Grant recipients must have a minimum 3.0 GPA at the 30th and 60th hour check points to remain eligible for the HOPE Grant. TheHOPE Scholarshipis awarded to HOPE Scholars enrolled in an associate degree (AAS) program of study. HOPE Scholars are students who graduate from a Georgia high school with this distinguished honor or students who are ‘grandfathered’ into the program after attempting a minimum of 45 associate or baccalaureate degree credit hours with a 3.0 or greater cumulative GPA at the required checkpoints. HOPE Scholarship applicants must also complete the ATC HOPE Scholarship Application.

33. IMPORTANT HOPE CHANGES Please note that the HOPE does not cover the Technology Fee, Late Fee or Malpractice Insurance Fee. Effective Fall Semester, the HOPE Award will only cover a portion of tuition cost. The HOPE Fees and Book Awards have been eliminated effective fall semester. For the 2011-2012 academic year, The HOPE tuition will cover $60.75 per semester hour. The tuition charges effective fall = $75.00 per semester hours. Therefore, the student will be responsible for $14.25 per semester hour unless he/she qualifies for Pell Grant or some other type of assistance.

34. Financial Aid Eligibility ELIGIBILITY CRITERIAAlthough there are specific criteria governing each SFA program, all SFA recipients must meet the following criteria: U. S. citizenship or eligible non-citizenship Selective Service registration, if required at www.sss.gov High school diploma or GED Enrollment in an eligible program of study Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Not owe a refund to a federal grant program or be in default on a federal student loan

35. Deadline Dates Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible prior to the academic year/term they would like to receive financial assistance. The academic year is July 1 – June 30, and the priority deadline date is March 1st precedingthe chosen academic year. Should the applicant fail to meet the priority deadline date, all aid applications and supportive documents must be submitted to the aid office by the following semester deadline dates: Fall Semester -- July 1 Spring Semester -- November 15

36. Satisfactory Academic Progress &Special Circumstances SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS SFA recipients must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward the completion of their certificate, diploma or degree. This includes maintaining a 2.0 or greater grade point average (GPA) and completing the program within 150 percent (150%) of the standard time frame required. Students must satisfactorily complete 67% of all attempted classes each semester to complete the program within the 150% time frame. Grades of D, F, W, WF, WP, U and I adversely affect the student’s completion rate. Students who fall below the Minimum requirements (GPA or completion rate) are required to pay their own tuition and fees until they regain SAP eligibility. If extenuating circumstances occur, the student may file an appeal to regain financial aid eligibility. These SAP regulations will change effective fall semester (August 23, 2011) Recommendation: Students who decide to change majors or withdraw from classes should check with their financial aid counselor to determine if and how their financial aid may be affected.

37. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES Students (and or the parents of dependent students) who experience changes (loss of employment, change in dependents, etc.) in their financial circumstances, should notify their Financial Aid Office in writing. Documentation is often required, but this could result in an increase in funding. 37

39. Fee Payment

40. Payment of Tuition & Fees • Tuition and fees are due at the time of registration by one of the following methods: • Cash, checks, money orders or credit card • Tuition and Fees can be paid online via BANNER by credit card (VISA and MasterCard only) – see instruction for BANNER Web payments in Orientation Manual • Financial Aid (if you have received an official award letter) • Third-Party Contract Sponsors

41. BUSINESS OFFICE If you do not have Financial Aid or a Third-Party sponsor, you may pay your tuition and fees with cash, check, or credit card. See the cashier in the Cleveland Dennard Building. Student schedules will be purged for non-payment of fees by semester deadline. Check the academic calendar for the current semester deadline.

42. Third Party Sponsors • To better service our clients Atlanta Tech has an agreement with several companies that provide tuition, fees, books and scholarships. • Examples of Third Party • All Workforce Development Agencies • Army National Guard • Atlanta Job Corps • AT&T • Department of Veteran’s Affairs • Internal Revenue Service • Mayor’s Youth Program • Georgia Fatherhood • Georgia Department of Labor

43. Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Provides tuition, books, tools, uniforms and equipment, child care services, and transportation for those who qualify. You must attend an orientation. WIA Offices: Atlanta Workforce Development Agency/Atlanta Tech Fulton County Workforce Development Agency Atlanta Regional Commission • Mattie Goss, Coordinator • 404.225.4446

44. Enrollment Fees & Methods of Payment

45. Payment Deadlines The following must be completed by the Payment Deadline: 1.All tuition & fees must be paid – See Banner Web Payment instructions. 2. All Financial Aid must be awarded and fees authorized in Banner Web. 3. All Third Party letters must be submitted to the Business Office. 4. Pay any remaining charges not covered by Financial Aid or Third Party. Tuition and fees are due at the time of registration by one of the following methods: Cash, checks, money orders or credit card Tuition and Fees can be paid online via BANNER by credit card (VISA and MasterCard only) – see instruction for BANNER Web payments in Orientation Manual Financial Aid (if you have received an official award letter) Third-Party Contract Sponsors Any student that has registered, but has fees that were not paid by the Payment Deadline, will have their schedule dropped (Purged). However, that student may re-register based on the availability of classes during Late Registration. A $45 late fee may apply during that time.

46. Instructions for Banner Web Payments (Online fee payments by check or credit card) 1. Visit Banner Web at www.atlantatech.edu 2. Click on Enter Secure Area. 3. Read this page and enter your Student ID (9000XXXXX) and PIN (student’s birthday MMDDYY) click Login. 4. Click on Student Services & Financial Aid. 5. Click on Student Records 6. Click on Summary By Term 7. Click Pay Online. This is located at the bottom right portion of your screen. 9. Select a Term for payment. 10. Enter the balance that you are paying and Click Pay by Credit or Check. 11. Enter your credit card information and click Continue Credit Card Payment or Check payment. 12. The next screen will serve as a receipt for this transaction. Print this page. You will receive an e-mail receipt at the address provided with your Credit Card information.

47. REFUND POLICY Cancelled Classes If tuition and fees are collected in advance of the start date of a class and the institution cancels the class, 100 % of all fees paid will be refunded. Withdrawals Students will receive refunds due upon submission of official withdrawal form from school. Tuition and Fees All tuition and fees, excluding the application fee, shall be refunded if a student formally withdraws prior to the first day of class of any semester.

48. HIGHER ONE CARDS All student refunds are done thru the Higher One Easy Refund card. Every student, even those that pay with cash/check/credit card, gets a refund card. This card is mailed to students about 4 weeks after the start of the semester. The mailing address that is used is taken from your ATC application. So if you have moved since you applied to ATC, please update your information in the Admissions office. There is a processing fee of $10 charged if Higher One has to re-issue a card for you. If you have not received your card by mid-term, come by the Business Office and the cashier can check the card status on Higher One’s website.

49. HIGHER ONE CARDS (continued) During the 1st 2 weeks of class, you can use your HOPE book allowance and a portion of your PELL award to buy books and supplies. Then, any unused portion of your financial aid will be processed as your refund. For cash-paying students, their refund may be for a dropped class. Remember that any changes to you schedule while also change your financial aid and the amount of your Hope book allowance. Review your student account online frequently. Atlanta Tech has a 3-day no penalty, no foul period, during which you can withdraw without incurring fees. If you drop or switch classes after day 3, your initial fees will not change. Watch an Orientation Video - http://www.youtube.com/user/h1marketing Once your receive your card in the mail, Activate It! - https://atltech.higheroneaccount.com/

50. Banner Web Registration Process 50