THE LEARNING CENTER PROGRAM FAQS
Program Mission Statement
The primary mission of The Learning Center (TLC) program is to enable students to manage their learning disabilities at the college level by assisting them through academic and life coaching. The TLC Program is designed for student retention through a holistic approach geared at improving learning, building confidence, and empowering students with the necessary tools to succeed in college and in life. An individual approach facilitates learning through self-help strategies, self-advocacy, and spiritual growth within the context of the Mercy Core Values. The Learning Center provides opportunities for students to create bonds with an Academic Support Specialist, who supports the student through his or her college career, encouraging independence and global awareness.
WHAT IS THE LEARNING CENTER PROGRAM?
ANSWER:
It is a highly specialized, fee-based program for students with documented mild to moderate learning disabilities. We also work with students who have psychological or emotional needs, as well as with students within the autism spectrum. Highlights of the program include:
- Creation of a personalized coaching/mentoring program that offers both academic and personal assistance, so that students have the greatest chance of completing a successful college education.
- One-on-one sessions with an Academic Support Specialist to help students develop time management, organizational, study, and testing skills.
- Content tutoring in many subject areas and evaluate progress through tracking of grades, assignments, and reports.
- Arrangement for accommodations required by the students' individual in-class and testing needs.
- Guaranteed two hours of one-on-one assistance per week with an Academic Support Specialist, and may request more sessions if needed.
- Development of socialization and life skills in a warm, friendly, and safe environment.
- High rates of graduation throughout the years.
- Bonding relationships with our students, which continue long after graduation.
HOW DO I ENROLL IN THE TLC PROGRAM?
ANSWER:
1. Apply to Georgian Court University (there is a place on the application asking if a student is interestested in theTLC program. The student must indicate 'yes.')
2. The student will send in an IEP, 504 plan, or other documentation of a learning disability to the admissions office at the time of application. The Admissions Office phone number is 732-987-2700 and is located in the Lake House.
3. Once a student is accepted into Georgian Court University, a request for an interview will be mailed to the student.
4. The student is required to come to TLC for an interview with the staff and may enroll in the program at that time.
5. The student will be notified by mail about the date of the TLC orientation.
**Please note: Although admission decisions are not based on enrollment in The Learning Center, if students are not otherwise qualified for admission, they may be considered for admission contingent on their enrollment in the intensive TLC program.
WHAT IF I DECIDE TO JOIN TLC AFTER I HAVE ALREADY BEEN A STUDENT AT GCU?
ANSWER:
A student may join TLC at any point during the school year. However, for optimum benefit, it is suggested enrollment occur at the beginning of the semester.
WHY IS THERE A FEE FOR THE TLC PROGRAM?
ANSWER:
The staff consists of professionals who work one-on-one with students, twice per week, to optimize success within the college environment. Workshops and events are offered as part of the TLC experience. (If a student were to obtain assistance through outside tutoring, the cost would be far greater in terms of hourly rates for college level academic support and services.)
DO I HAVE TO BE IN TLC THE ENTIRE TIME I AM AT GCU?
ANSWER:
No. The amount of time a student may need TLC is completely individual. Enrollment is dependent upon the students' academic and/or personal needs throughout their college experience.
DO I HAVE TO BE PART OF TLC TO GET ACCOMMODATIONS?
ANSWER:
No. Students with a documented disability can request accommodations under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). There is no charge for accommodations.
WHO DO I CONTACT TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TLC?
ANSWER:
A student may call The Learning Center/Disabilities Services office with questions about the TLC program, accommodations, or to arrange a visit.
Location: Lower Level of GCU Library
Phone Number: 732-987-2650
Semester Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Evening appointments can be made as necessary
