Palau Community College

MESEKIU'S

NEWS

Friday, August 29, 2008                                  Weekly Newsletter                                      Volume 10, Issue 35

President Tellei, First Palauan to
Serve on ACCJC

44 Graduate from
Online Program Since Inception

Since Palau Community College and San Diego State University (SDSU) first established the online cohort program back in 2001, forty-four individuals have graduated with bachelor's and master's degrees in the field of Education. This number is expected to rise as twenty-six more bachelor degree candidates complete their requirements by the end of this month and receive their official grade by the end of the Fall semester.

The first seventeen graduates of the PCC-SDSU online program received their master's degrees in Educational Leadership in 2003. In 2005, one more received a master's degree along with the first four graduates of the bachelor's program. And most recently this Spring Semester, twenty-two more students received their master's degrees.

According to PCC-SDSU Online Coordinator Sherman Daniel, the program has made it convenient for those in the community as well as the College to further their education without leaving Palau. Students who have taken advantage of the online program work in various government offices and private agencies such as Palau Community College, Ministry of Education, Koror State Government, Maris Stella School, and SPACO.

Palau Community College thanks all the supporting offices, particularly the Palau National Scholarship Board for their tremendous support in making it possible for the students to reach their educational goals.

(See list of graduates on page 3)

President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei 

On July 1, 2008, Palau Community College President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei was selected as one of the new Commissioners to join the nineteen-member governing body that is the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), an organization that accredits two-year associate degree granting colleges in California, Hawaii, the Territories of Guam and American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the

Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. ACCJC is one of the three commissions under the corporate entity known as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

President Tellei who made history in 1999 when he became the first alumnus of Micronesian Occupational College (MOC), now PCC, to become the President of the College, is again making history by becoming the first from Palau to serve as commissioner of ACCJC.

Dr. Tellei who holds a doctorate degree in Education (Ed.D.) from the University of San Diego in California, and a master degree in Education (M.Ed.) from the University of Hawaii will serve a three-year term as commissioner.

PCC Instructor Gets 5-Year Full
Scholarship to Taiwan

Instructor Uroi Salii, who has been teaching Math and Business courses at the College for the past year, was recently accepted to a five-year full scholarship to attend the National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan. Salii will concentrate on perfecting her Mandarin language during the first year after which she will begin a two-year master's program in Business Administration (MBA). After obtaining her MBA, Salii said she will immediately start on her doctorate degree.

Salii is the daughter of the Board of Trustees Chairperson Bilung Gloria G. Salii and Carlos Salii. She is an alumni of the University of Denver in Colorado

Uroi Salii

where she received her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Salii was scheduled to leave earlier this morning to Taiwan to begin her studies. The College thanks Salii for the past year she has devoted her time and shared her knowledge with the students at PCC. We would also like to bid her farewell and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

My UMEB Summer Experience
By: Ngedikes Benedict, Environmental/Marine Science Student

This summer I was most fortunate to receive a scholarship to participate in the UMEB program. UMEB stands for Undergraduate Mentoring in Environmental Biology. It is a program funded by the NSF and is designed to expose students from under-represented and minority ethnic groups such as Hispanics, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Hawai`ians to fields in science. Undergraduates don't normally get opportunities like this to experience what doing research is like. The program covers all travel expenses and students get a stipend throughout the 10 week program. My UMEB summer was one of my best summers. I was assigned a mentor with whom I was supposed to come up with a research topic to work on over the summer. It took a while to figure out what I was going to do, but in the process I observed and asked other researchers what they were working

on so I could broaden my knowledge and understanding of what research is all about. I eventually found my interest in Ocean Acidification, so that is what I did my 10 week research project on. The wonderful thing is that I learned so many different things from the fellow people in my lab and other professors. The program allowed me to decide what I want to do so I could find something that really interested me. I got to meet so many amazing people, got to know them, what they do, and what drives their passion for what they do. I also made many friends, but most of all I experienced what it was like to do scientific research and go through the process of coming up with a question, determining how to answer it, answering it, coming to a conclusion about what it meant, how I could use that information, and writing up a research paper to share with others what I learned. This was the last summer for the UMEB program,

Ngedikes Benedict (3rd from left) and another PCC student Evadne Nakamura (2nd from left) with the other participants of UMEB.

but a new grant which has been awarded for a program called Undergraduate Research Mentoring (URM), a program very similar to UMEB. This is not only for science majors; it is for anyone who is interested in what the program has to offer, but it does help to have taken at least one science class. I highly encourage other students to apply for this next summer because it is a fun, challenging, educational, and an inspirational experience.

Local Consultant Preps Students for Investment Conference in Manila

Jackson Henry (r) conducted a presentation on investment analysis last Monday.

Jackson M. Henry, a Principal Broker-Consultant who specializes in Real Estate Services and Investment Consulting, was the guest speaker for PCC students who are interested in attending the 8^th Annual Pacific Region Investment Conference (PRIC) which will be held in Manila, Philippines this coming October. During his presentation earlier this week, Henry covered various topics relating to Investment Analysis. Being that one of the eligibility requirements for attendance in PRIC is an essay on Investment Analysis, the students agreed that the presentation was very helpful. PCC students along with Business instructors, Keiden Skilang and Robert Ramarui thanks Henry for his insightful and informative presentation.

Attention PCC Students: Call for Papers

Palau Community College in association with Asia Pacific Association for Fiduciary Studies is now accepting papers for the 8^th Annual Pacific Region Investment Conference (PRIC) which will be held this coming October 9-10 in Manila, Philippines.

The winner of the competition will represent Palau Community College in this upcoming PRIC Student Competition in Manila, Philippines. This award includes:

1) Roundtrip airfare from Palau to Manila
2) Airport-hotel transfers
3) Lodging at the conference hotel
4) $75 per diem for food and miscellaneous expenses

Eligibility:
• PCC student over the age of 18.
• Must submit a 3-5 page: Investment analysis of a major company or submit a paper on the investment process they used in selecting and buying stock.

Evaluation Criteria:
• Content/Knowledge of Topic- 50%
• Evidence of Research- 15%
• Organization- 10%
• Grammar & Writing Style- 10%
• Presentation Format- 10%
• Timely submission of paper- 5%

Technical Specifications:
• 12 point Times New Roman or Courier New Font
• Double-spaced
• 3-5 pages
• Sources: Follow established citation/documentation format (MLA, APA, Chicago)

Deadline for Submission:
5:00 p.m., Thursday, September 04, 2008 to Academic Affairs Office, Temekai Building.

Additional Information:
If you have any question or need additional information, please contact Robert Ramarui or Keiden Skilang at Business Ed. Office, Temekai Building at 488-2471 ext. 240 or 241.

BITS AND PIECES...

TODAY

Scholarships Deadline Today..

Today, August 29, 2008 is the last day to submit completed scholarship application forms to the PCC Development office. The following scholarship funds for PCC students are available at the PCC Development office: Carita Asanuma Scholarship; Prince Lebuu Scholarship; Pierantozzi Scholarship; Moylan's Insurance Scholarship; Roman Tmetuchl Scholarship; Shell Company (Pacific Islands) Ltd. Scholarship; and Library & Information Services Scholarship.

If you do not have applications, please stop by the PCC Development office located behind the library and pick up your application forms, however, you must complete and submit the forms before 4:30 p.m., TODAY.

TODAY

Textbook "Clearance" Ends Today...

The PCC Bookstore would like to remind all PCC students that textbook clearances will conclude today, August 29, 2008.

For more information, please contact Helene Moros or Gibson Towai at the Bookstore at 488-2470/2471 ext. 236 or 275.

HOLIDAY

Monday,
Labor Day Holiday...

Monday, September 1, 2008, is Labor Day and a national holiday in Palau observed by all public offices including Palau Community College. Therefore, there will be no classes and all PCC offices will be closed and only essential services will be provided during that day. Enjoy your holiday!

Succeeding in College- Part II
Taken from Study Tips.com at www.how-to-study.com

Get Financial Aid if Needed
• Respond quickly and completely to all requests for additional information.
• Be persistent in following up your application.
• If you do receive financial aid, meet all requirements to keep and continue your aid.
Manage Your Money
There are many ways to spend money in the college setting for other than education purposes. Take steps to ensure that you do not waste the money set aside for your college education.
• Set a budget and keep to it.
• Be careful about your use of credit cards. Don't overspend. Pay balances promptly to avoid high interest costs.
• Open a checking account and carefully monitor your balance.
• Keep your cell phone under control. Those minutes and fees can really add up.
Stay Physically and Emotionally Healthy
You will need to be at your best to succeed in college. This means taking care of your body and maintaining a good frame of mind.

• Get enough sleep.
• Don't rely on coffee and drinks that contain high doses of caffeine to provide you with energy. Foods such as pasta, peanut butter, non-sugar cereals, and fresh fruit are healthy alternatives to provide the energy you need.
• Avoid junk foods. Fast food is convenient but usually not good for you.
• Use the services of the counseling office. The professionals there can help you overcome feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
Choose a Professor Carefully
In college you get to select your schedule of classes. Most classes offer more than one section so that you can choose not just the day and time, but the professor who is teaching that section. You can get even more feedback by talking to other students. Try to choose a professor who demonstrates the following characteristics.
• Maintains adequate office hours.
• Provides constructive feedback.
• Adapts to different styles of learning.
• Grades fairly.
                  (Continued on back page)

          ALUMNI NOTES:

Class of 2006 (PCC)

Zillah Riuch Mereb - 2006 PCC graduate with an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Tourism & Hospitality- Hospitality Management (THHM). Mereb works at the Ministry of Education- Minister's Office as an Administrative Assistant. She has been working there for the past 1 1/2 year.

 Class of 1993 (PCC)

Richie Smaserui - 1993 PCC graduate with a Certificate of Achievement (CA) in General Electronics Technology (GET). Smaserui works at the Palau National Communications Corporation as a Senior Transmission Technician. He has been working there for the past 11 years.

Class of 1981 (MOC)

Edley Evel Eryang - 1981 MOC graduate with a Certificate of Achievement (CA) in Agricultural Science (AGS). Eryang works at George B. Harris Elementary School as a Teacher. He has been working there for the past 13 years.

Alumni Notes showcases MOC/PCC alumni who contribute to the quality of life in their local community and are postive role models for other PCC students to emulate. If you are that alumni or know someone who is, please contact the PCC Development Office at telephone number 488-2471. We would like to feature you in future issues of the Mesekiu's News.

Previous Mesekiu Issues:

August 22, 2008
August 15, 2008
August 8, 2008
August 1, 2008
July 25, 2008
July 18, 2008
July 11, 2008
July 7, 2008
June 27, 2008
June 20, 2008
June 13, 2008
June 6, 2008
May 30, 2008
May 23, 2008
May 16, 2008
May 9, 2008
May 2, 2008
April 25, 2008
April 18, 2008
April 11, 2008
April 4, 2008
March 28, 2008
March 21, 2008
March 14, 2008
March 7, 2008
February 29, 2008
February 22, 2008
February 15, 2008
February 8, 2008
February 1, 2008

(Continued from page 3)

• Is highly competent in the subject being taught.
• Establishes clear and reasonable requirements.
• Provides a positive learning environment.
Work With Your Advisor
As a student you will be assigned a faculty advisor to help you with both academic and career issues. It is up to you to get the most out of this guidance.
• Know your advisor's office location, schedule of office hours, and contact information.
• Schedule an appointment with your advisor at any time you have problems that affect your academic performance.
• Consider your advisor's ideas when selecting your major or at any time you are considering changing your major or career goals.
• Have specific questions in mind whenever meeting with your advisor.
Make Good Use of the Library
You are going to spend a lot of your time in college at the library. Take full advantage of this major resource.
• Get to know the resources of the library as soon as you get to college.
• Learn to use its computer resources and card catalogs.
• Make good use of its equipment such as copy machines, microfiche readers, production facilities, etc.
• Check out its quiet study areas. Sign up for their use if required.
Get Involved in Campus Life
There is a lot more to college than just classes. A college campus is an exciting, dynamic environment that can provide you with many opportunities for enhancing your college experience.
• Join a student organization that is consistent with your interests. You will find many organizations from which to choose.
• Join a club in your major. This cannot only help you in your studies but can provide contacts that may be very useful in your future career.
• Join an intramural team. This is a great way to keep yourself in good physical shape and make new friends.
• Attend social events. Your college experience should not be all work and no play.
Yes success in college takes effort. But this effort will provide benefits to you throughout your life. The ideas presented above can help you to make your college experience a successful one.

Attention:
All Students & Staff

The election of ASPCC officers and student trustee for school year 2008-2009 will take place on September 10, 2008. Qualification for officers and student trustee (student representative to the board of trustees) are as follows:

1. Student must be full-time (12 credits or more) and maintain a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.00 or above.
2. Student must have no record of felony or criminal offense.
3. Class representatives shall be composed of four (4) students, two from the freshman class and two from the sophomore class.
4. Officers shall be from the following classes:

A. Student Trustee- Either sophomore or freshman with at least one-full time term prior to election.
B. * President- Elect- Freshman Student
C. Secretary- Either Freshman or Sophomore
D. Treasurer- Either Freshman or Sophomore

* President-Elect will serve in the capacity of a Vice President for one year and will automatically become president the second year.

Election Procedures:

1. Candidates for the Board of Trustees, Senate Officers, and Class Representatives shall register at the office of the Director of Student Life no later than September 04, 2008 at 4:30 p.m.

2. Candidates must acquire a petition form with the signatures of twenty-five (25) ASPCC members which must be submitted to the office of the Director of Student Life on or before September 04, 2008 at 4:30 p.m.

3. Election of student trustee, ASPCC officers, and class representatives will take place on September 10, 2008 and will be held at PCC Mesekiu Bai from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 Celebrating Birthdays

      Dahlia Katosang       September 03
 
       Happy Birthday To You!