A building can be more than just a structure that stands permanently in once place – the case for Mott Academic Center, the 50-year-old heart of The University of Olivet learning and development. Nearly every student’s educational journey includes Mott at the core, but more importantly, the relationships and memories that were created within. The building is named for Charles Stewart Mott, an engineer and entrepreneur, but also a philanthropist and public servant. Like the founders of The University of Olivet, Charles Mott was forward thinking and dedicated to helping others be more and do good.
In the spring issue of Shipherd’s Record, a special collection of stories shared more about Mott Academic Center’s past and future in “If These Walls Could Talk.” Mott has not stood still. It is alive, and it’s moving toward the next 50 years. Dual enrolled students are just one of the factors that contribute to the vibrant learning environment in Mott Academic Center. Read the full magazine online now.
There’s no doubt that the The University of Olivet dual enrollment program benefits high school students: There is an increase in the likelihood students will apply for and enroll in college after graduation, students experience a smoother transition from high school to college and they can take courses not available at their high schools. They also get a closer look at academics areas of interest, and the family saves on tuition costs.
In the last four years alone, The University of Olivet has welcomed 551 high school students into classrooms, on campus and through its high school-based Insurance Academy, and enrollment is on the rise.
Faculty members who teach dual enrolled students agree that they add a positive dimension to the learning environment and development experience of all students through their participation in the classroom.
“Whether they take courses in our nationally recognized insurance program around the state or choose from among dozens of courses open to high school dual enrolled students right here on our home campus, The University of Olivet is a wonderful choice for students considering dual enrollment classes,” The University of Olivet Provost and Dean Maria Davis, Ph.D., said. “In both on and off campus options, students receive a personalized learning experience and one-on-one advising and class help, setting them on a solid path to success in their college education.”
Marshall High School senior Owen Miller is enrolled in two courses, Introduction to Leisure Services and Administration and Principles of Insurance and Risk Management. “I plan on coming to OC next year, and I thought dual enrolling would be a great opportunity to get used to the campus and especially earn some credits before I actually start college,” Miller explained. “I’m also excited to take advantage of my high school paying for the classes. I plan to major in insurance and risk management and join the wrestling team.”
“When students arrive at The University of Olivet with previous dual enrolled credits, they tend to have established study habits and a greater work ethic,” said Tom Humphreys, CPCU, CLU, ChFC, CIC, director of The University of Olivet risk management and insurance program and assistant professor of insurance, risk management and financial planning.
Amanda Rybicki, Olivet High School counselor added, “The dual enrollment program with The University of Olivet provides our students with the opportunity to take advanced or specialized elective classes in subjects that are of interest to them. It allows our students to truly create a personal curriculum that leads them in the direction of their career pathway. It also provides our students with a real-life college experience before jumping head first into college after high school.”
Registrar Leslie Sullivan works with high school counselors to guide students through the dual enrollment process, and says the students she works with often treat the opportunity to dual enroll as a gift. “These students take their classes very seriously and show that they feel honored to be offered the opportunity,” Sullivan said.