Blog

Ah, the first year of college! It’s the exciting, sometimes nerve-wracking, “what-comes-next?” moment that both your child and you have been preparing for. But, as a parent, you might be wondering: “What exactly is my child’s first year going to look like at Ellsworth Community College (ECC) or Marshalltown Community College (MCC)? And how can I make sure they’re on the right path?”

Great news—you’re not alone in this journey! We’re not just here for your child, but for you, too. We understand that navigating the transition from high school to college can be a big step, and we’re here to help both of you every step of the way.

So, let’s walk through what your child’s first year at ECC or MCC will look like—trust us, it’s going to be a rewarding adventure full of learning, growing, and achieving!

1. Start with a Strong Foundation: Orientation and Welcome Week

Picture this: Your child walks onto campus and is immediately greeted with open arms. It’s the first day, and they’re introduced to their new home away from home.

At ECC and MCC, Welcome Week kicks things off with a bang. There are activities, and plenty of chances to meet new friends. From day one, your child will feel connected and supported.

They’ll also participate in orientation where they’ll get to know the campus, meet their academic advisor, and learn about all the amazing resources available to them. We’ll walk them through everything—from how to use the student portal to finding the best study spots (hint: it’s the cozy corner in the library).

By the end of the week, they’ll already be starting to feel like they belong here. It’s the perfect first step toward an exciting year ahead!

2. A Focused, Flexible Academic Schedule: Classes That Fit Their Life

Now, let’s talk about academics. The beauty of ECC and MCC is that your child has the flexibility to balance school with the rest of their life. We offer small class sizes, which means more one-on-one time with professors who truly care about their success. Your child won’t just be a name on a roster—they’ll have a voice in the classroom.

Plus, we understand that your child’s life isn’t just about hitting the books. That’s why we offer flexible class schedules with options for online courses and hybrid options. Whether your child works part-time, wants to get involved in campus activities, or simply needs a breather, we’ve got a schedule that fits.

By the end of the first semester, your child will have gotten into the groove of managing their coursework, responsibilities, and social life. It’s all about building that balance. And don’t worry, we’ll be there to help them every step of the way with academic advising and tutoring options when needed.

3. Building Connections: More Than Just Academics

Let’s be real: college isn’t just about what happens inside the classroom. It’s about finding your child’s place in the community. We don’t just teach—we build a supportive environment where students grow socially and emotionally.

In their first year, your child will have the chance to join clubs, student organizations, and participate in campus events that match their interests. From movie nights to Service Projects and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), there’s something for everyone. The best part? They’ll be making connections that could turn into lifelong friendships or even professional networks down the road.

And if your child is thinking about transferring to a four-year university after completing their first year at ECC or MCC, they’ll have access to transfer advising to help make the transition as smooth as possible. We’re here to ensure that they not only get through their first year but thrive in the next stages of their education.

4. The Power of Support: Advisors and Faculty Who Care

We know that college can feel overwhelming, especially during the first year. But here’s the thing: we’ve got your back. Your child won’t just be another student lost in the shuffle. Our faculty and staff genuinely care about their success.

From day one, your child will have access to a personalized advisor who will help them navigate everything—from selecting courses to discussing career goals. Advisors are there to ensure your child stays on track academically and personally. Need extra help? We’ve got tutoring centers and student success workshops that give your child all the tools they need to succeed.

And if your child is ever feeling lost or unsure, our student services team is always there to help with everything from mental health support to figuring out financial aid. It’s all about providing the right support, at the right time, so your child can excel and feel confident in their journey.

5. A Year of Growth and Confidence: Stepping into Adulthood

By the end of their first year at ECC or MCC, your child will have grown both academically and personally. They’ll have built confidence, honed valuable life skills, and set a clear path for their future—whether that’s continuing at ECC or MCC, transferring to a four-year university, or jumping into a career.

They’ll also be more independent. Your child will start to take charge of their education, manage their time, and make choices that shape their future. And let’s not forget—they’ll also gain a sense of belonging. By the end of their first year, they’ll know that they’re part of the Iowa Valley family—and we’re always here to support them no matter what.

So, What’s the Next Step?

Now that you’ve got a glimpse of what your child’s first year at ECC or MCC will look like, it’s time to take the next step together. Whether your child is ready to hit the ground running or needs a little help finding their footing, we’re here to make sure they succeed.

We invite you to visit our campus, tour the facilities, and meet with our faculty and staff. Let’s chat about how we can support both you and your child in this exciting next chapter of their life.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a visit—we can’t wait to welcome you and your family to the Ellsworth Community College or Marshalltown Community College family!

Hey, parents, breathe easy. We’re passionate about your child’s success, and we’re here to help them thrive every step of the way. The journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to be part of it!