Resources and Activities for Students
Learning Resources
Our students are provided with a variety of services and resources at the Libraries and Teaching/Learning/Computing Centers on each campus that are designed to support their academic success at Polk State College (PSC). Knowledgeable and helpful staff members are available at each location. Many resources and services can be accessed online through the Internet and to support students taking PSC e-learning courses or studying on campus.
Libraries
The PSC libraries support learning and instruction by providing access to quality academic information resources on many subjects. The libraries’ collections include books, periodicals, reference materials, electronic books, microfilm, art reproductions, and audio-visual materials. The libraries purchase access to many electronic databases that are accessible to students through the Internet.
Each library is equipped with personal computers and laptops that are available for use within the library. Self-service coin/bill operated computer printing, photocopying, and microfilm reader/printers are available. Students who print from library and TLCC computers will be charged a nominal fee per page. All computers in the library are connected to the Internet and the library provides wireless Internet access for those who wish to bring their own laptops.
Professional librarians are available to consult with students on research, and they can also teach students to use information resources in the library or online. Knowledgeable support staff is on hand to assist students with checking out materials and using library technology.
The Winter Haven Campus Library is located on the third floor on the Learning Resources Building (WLR). The Lakeland Campus Library is located on the first floor of the Lakeland Learning Center (LLC-2160) building. For details, visit the PSC Library website at www.polk.edu.
Teaching/Learning/Computing Centers
The purpose of the Teaching/Learning/Computing Centers (TLCC) is to further the educational process at PSC. The TLCCs provide qualified staff and up-to-date equipment and facilities to promote student academic success by providing tutoring services, computing resources, and other instructional support.
The TLCC at the Winter Haven campus is located on the second floor of the Learning Resources Building (WLR). At Lakeland, the TLCC is located on the first floor of the Lakeland Learning Center (LLC-2150). The TLCCs provide a wide variety of resources, including computers, scanners, printers, and Internet and email access, as well as numerous software applications available for student use.
The TLCCs also provide one-to-one and group tutoring in college preparatory courses, mathematics and English. Each TLCC provides supplemental videotapes, audio tapes, slides, models, and other instructional materials. Make-up, certification, and distance education tests are also administered in the TLCCs.
The TLCCs are open weekdays during the day from Monday through Thursday, evenings and on Saturday mornings. Specific hours and further information can be found on the TLCC’s website at www.polk.edu.
Student Activities and Athletics
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official representative of PSC students. The SGA has three main responsibilities: it acts as a liaison between students and administrators, it provides a program of activities for the College, and it represents PSC students in state organizations of college students.
The SGA schedules college activities and events that provide social outlets for students. SGA is a member of the Florida Junior/Community Colleges Student Government Association and represents PSC on the district and state level.
SGA holds elections each spring and officers typically serve a year long term. All students that are currently in good academic standing at PSC are considered members of SGA and are able to attend meetings.
The SGA is funded by the Student Activities Fee, making it possible to present programs free of charge to PSC students. The SGA assists with the administration of the Activities budget under the supervision of the Coordinator of Student Activities and the Dean of Student Services.
Student Center
The Student Centers are places where students gather to socialize and study. The Student Center on the Lakeland campus is located in LAC-1133. On the Winter Haven campus, the Student Center is identified as the WST Building and houses the College Bookstore, special event rooms, campus dining services, Activity Center, TV Lounge, and the Student Activity/SGA offices.
Student Organizations
Many active clubs and organizations are available at Polk State College (PSC). Among them are:
- AITP – Collegiate Computer Club
- Archaeology Society
- Brain Bowl
- Black Student Union
- C.A.V.E. (Cultural Academic and Vocational Experience)
- Chess Club
- Drama Club
- Florida Nursing Student Association
- Go Green – Recycle Program
- Health Information Management Club
- International Circle
- International Business Club
- Math Club
- Occupational Therapy Assistant Club
- Phi Theta Kappa
- Physical Therapist Assistant Club
- PSC Equality
- PSC Players
- Psi Beta
- Readers Theatre
- SHOUT – Students Helping Others Understand the Truth
- Student Activities Board
- United Writers
- Veterans Student Association
- Viking Volunteers
- Visual Arts Society of PSC
PSC sponsors a chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the official National Honor Society for community and junior college students. The PSC Chapter, Xi Pi, is an active student organization on campus, which encourages scholarship, developing leadership, providing service to the College, and promoting fellowship among members. Interested students should consult an Advisor for membership requirements.
Publications
Catalogs and other College publications are produced when appropriate. These publications are also available on the PSC website at www.polk.edu. Alternative formats are available in student services for disabled students.
Music
PSC provides a variety of opportunities for students wishing to participate in ensemble music organizations, both vocal and instrumental. Participation is on a credit or non-credit basis, depending on the ensemble. For further information, contact Professor John Anderson, Department of Music, at 863-297-1010, extension 5277.
Theatre
Students have opportunities to get involved in PSC’s theatre program either through acting or production.
PSC presents two types of theatre events: the PSC Readers Theatre and PSC Players productions. Students may register for the one-credit course, Theatrical Production, or may participate on a non-credit basis. A number of other credit courses also are available for those interested in theatre.
Athletic Programs
PSC is a member in good standing of the National Junior College Athletic Association (Region VIII) as well as the Florida Community College Activities Association (Suncoast Conference). Athletes compete in men’s baseball, men’s basketball, women’s volleyball, women’s softball, and women’s soccer. A limited number of scholarships are available for student athletes.
PSC has excellent sports facilities that serve as models for other schools in Florida. The Health Center on the Winter Haven Campus seats 2,600 adults in an air-conditioned, state-of-the-art, oak-wood surface facility. The baseball field is built to professional specifications. The softball team plays at the state-of-the-art Diamondplex.
Students wishing to participate in an athletic program are encouraged to contact the coach of the varsity sport of interest. Athletic Programs are located on the Winter Haven Campus.
Intramurals
Polk State College (PSC) provides an intramurals program including competition in events such as flag football, basketball, volleyball, bowling and more. Students who would like to get involved or have ideas for other activities should contact the Student Activity Office on the Lakeland or Winter Haven Campus.
Career Centers
PSC has Career Centers located on the Lakeland and Winter Haven campuses. A variety of services is offered to assist students developing a career plan, choosing a major, and preparing for a job search. Visit Academic Advisors on the Lakeland or Winter Haven campus for more information.
Health Services
No hospital facilities are provided by the College.
NOTE: The College has no express or implied responsibility for accidents or expenses incurred resulting from an accident; therefore, students are required to assume responsibility for their own medical expenses.
Students are encouraged to purchase health insurance while attending Polk State College. Information on various insurance plans is available in the Academic Advising Offices.
Help Center
The Academic Advising and Help Center offers short-term counseling for both personal and academic issues. All services provided by the Help Center are free of charge and confidential in accordance with State and Federal law. We all have times in our lives when the stress of managing our daily responsibilities can become overwhelming. If a student is struggling with an academic, emotional, family, financial, or personal issue, we can help. Our licensed counselors provide support for a variety of concerns: alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety and depression, academic distress, attention deficit, coping with college, loss of a loved one, sexual assault, stress management, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts and feelings and test anxiety. Appointments can be scheduled at the student’s convenience and walk-ins are always welcome.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call:
Winter Haven Help Center WAD 178 – 863-292-3759
Lakeland Help Center LTB 1288 – 863-669-2309
Reserve Officer Traning Corps
Polk State College (PSC) has a cross-enrollment plan with Florida Southern College (FSC) to provide our students with the opportunity of participating in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) offered through FSC’s Department of Military Science. Students take courses on the PSC or FSC campus. Credit earned in these courses become part of the student’s permanent record at PSC. There is no additional cost.
Students taking ROTC courses during their first two years of college incur no service obligation. Qualifying students can apply for two and three year Army ROTC scholarships that pay tuition, books, materials, fees, and a $100 stipend per month. Two-year scholarship winners receive free room and board if they transfer to Florida Southern College for their junior and senior years. Students interested in ROTC programs should enroll in an Associate of Arts program leading to a degree in their chosen field.
Lost and Found
Students should return found items and check for lost items at the Information Desk in Student Services on any campus.
Student Housing
The College does not provide dormitories, housing, or housing referrals.
Change of Regulations
PSC reserves the right to make changes in the regulations, course offerings, curriculum, academic policies, fees, procedures, and other rules affecting students.
Student Identification Cards
PSC identification cards will be issued to enrolled students. Students are required to show this ID when using College services or attending College sponsored events. Cards that are lost, stolen, or damaged may be replaced for a $5.00 fee. The Photo ID Offices are located in the SGA Offices. |
