Editor’s note: The Journal Tribune is launching a new monthly education column that incorporates viewpoints from different educational institutions in York County.

Education is the most powerful tool that can be used to change the world and here in York County, there are many fine educational facilities.

Here’s the latest from a number of those schools:

University College

One of the many challenges adults face as they return to college is financing their education. Maine adults who want to return to college may qualify for as much as $4,000 per year in scholarships for up to four years through the University of Maine System’s Adult Degree Completion Scholarship Fund.

The System’s fund aims to help Maine people complete their academic studies, which they may have started years ago but, for whatever reasons, never completed.

The Scholarships are for adult students returning after an absence of three years or more, and who are completing their very first baccalaureate degree. Courses may be taken at any of the UMS campuses and UC Centers, including University College at Saco.

The application deadline for students to apply for the Scholarships is Dec. 1. Prior to completing this application, it is recommend people interested contact an advisor to review their eligibility and discuss their plan for completing a bachelor’s degree.

Applicants must meet the following criteria in order to be eligible for consideration:

• Must be a resident of the state of Maine.

• Must become a student at a UMS institution seeking a first baccalaureate degree.

• Must be an undergraduate re-entry student who has experienced a gap (three years or more) in the pursuit of postsecondary education.

• Must have previously earned a minimum of 30 credits.

• Must demonstrate financial need.

• Must be registered at least part time.

For assistance with the scholarship application and for more information, contact UC Saco at 282-4111 or visit: learn.maine.edu/saco

Thornton Academy 

September is upon us, and with this turn of the calendar page comes the start to another new school year.  During our first few days at Thornton Academy, I saw many faces happy to reconnect with friends and favorite teachers but also, on the outskirts of the crowds, I noticed some faces that looked more apprehensive and nervous.  

For those just starting a new school year, either as parent, student, grandparent, or one who simply cares for a student, here are some tips for how to make a successful year at school.  

Get involved. In addition to academic classes, all schools offer extracurricular clubs and athletic teams that students can join.  Participating in these activities is a great way for students, especially if they are new or shy, to make friends and feel like they are a part of the school community.  

Most clubs and sports are open to beginners and are a great way to develop passions that can last a lifetime.  At TA, students are encouraged to create new clubs with the help of a staff member to serve as advisor for the group.  

Some of our newest clubs including the Anime Club and TAAS (Thornton Academy Anglers Society) are some of our most popular groups.  Students that feel connected to their friends and teachers have a better experience in school.  

Work hard. Teachers, universities, and employers all desire individuals who possess this quality.  No matter the career path or academic institution, the ability to work hard, complete projects in a timely matter, and be committed to the success of the organization will make anyone a valued member of a team.  

One of our pillars at TA is investment. We encourage students to become invested in their work, classes, and extracurricular activities. 

York County Community College

York County Community College is proud to announce that it is starting this fall semester with a traditional semester format and two seven-week mini-terms to accommodate students who cannot commit to a full fall term or wish to take their courses in a shorter format. 

The mini-semester format comes in response to student requests for more accelerated terms and as a response to the thriving York County hospitality industry whose seasonal workers continue to be employed through early October.  Besides the variety of liberal arts courses that are offered in these mini-terms, there are offerings for our online Gerontology program, Hospitality and Tourism program, and Culinary Arts program.  

This fall YCCC also launches its inaugural semester of its Liberal Studies/American Studies Concentration made possible through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This fall’s offering, Introduction to American Studies, includes a field trip to historic and cultural sites in Boston. 

We are also pleased to announce that in addition to our non-credit personal enrichment and career development courses, this fall we have added a series of culinary offerings for middle school children ages 11 to 13.

These one- and two-day offerings on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings include: Cooking 101, Baking 101, All About Apples, Pizza Party, Holiday Cookies and Small Bites for the Holidays. 

To learn more about all of YCCC’s offerings, visit www.yccc.edu or call 646-9282 .