IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Bay College West hosted its new student orientation this morning, where students were able to get familiar with the resources available at the west campus in Iron Mountain. The college’s new president, Dr. Nerita Hughes addressed the students at the west campus, discussing her philosophy on holistic education as she excitedly welcomed the students to their new chapter of life with a Bay College education.
“Being at a smaller institution, at a two-year. I mean, that’s the advantage of a community college is you really can provide those services that sometimes a 4 year can’t provide, or you have it from a more intimate perspective. Where you really get to know the student,” she commented during an interview.
Dr. Hughes is working to integrate more opportunities for students to get involved with the local businesses in the area. During her visit to Iron Mountain, she’ll be meeting with industry leaders from Systems Control.
“So that is really the discussion, how can we be a feeder for them as they’re looking at talent, and building their talent pipeline. And can we provide them with students for that particular piece, or is it an internship opportunity,” she remarked.
In another exciting development at Bay College, the west campus has a new feature for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy on its grounds. Thanks to a Community Giving Grant from Boss Snowplow, and a volunteer initiative by the company, a new hiking path has been installed. The path was put in over the winter, and wood chips were laid on a volunteer day last month to finish the trail. Bay College West plans on putting up signs to make the trail, and has plans to host an official opening celebration sometime this fall.
September 1st is the last day to add a class for Bay students. The last day to drop a class is September 8th.
The community college is gearing up to provide some exciting events to Bay College students this year.
Comedian Ryan Kelly will be at main campus in Escanaba Friday the 25th at 6 pm at the Besse theater. Students can get in free with ID. The comedy event will coincide with the Escanaba campus’s new student orientation.
On Saturday, November 4th, a Pop Culture Show is scheduled to be held at Bay’s Escanaba campus with tables and vendors showcasing pop culture art.
Then looking ahead in the spring, on April 20th, Bay College will host its ‘Return of the Bay-Con,’ inspired and modeled after comic con. The college will be promoting its event via a social media event page for updates, and stay tuned to WZMQ for coverage. The 501st Storm Trooper group is said to be a feature of the event. Over 100 vendor tables are anticipated, and a unique vintage video game room is planned. Students will be able to enter a cosplay contest, and organizers are working on a lineup for celebrity guests. Matt Wiles Taco Truck will provide the catering.
For more information on enrollment and opportunities as the Bay College West campus, please visit:
https://www.baycollege.edu/on-campus/bay-college-west/index.php
