Ten Questions about Virtual Services for Students

We know that our students have questions, and we have answers. These are crazy times, unlike any we have ever known, that are causing a lot of stress and anxiety. We are here for you…just an email or phone call away.

As the situation has evolved and continues to change, we have compiled a listing of frequently asked questions regarding Student Support Services. Here are some of the top questions being asked by students.

1. Where do I find information about BTC’s college-wide response to concerns related to COVID-19? 

In addition to regularly checking your Blackhawk email for updates, We have a page on our website dedicated to information and updates related to COVID-19.  You can find that at https://blackhawk.edu/Coronavirus.

2. Will the semester be extended?

The College will extend the spring semester for those students who need additional time to complete course requirements. In some cases, especially for classes requiring specific hours for testing and licensure, you may be required to complete additional hours within or beyond the current semester’s dates. Students will make those arrangements directly with their instructors and it may include using an Incomplete (a formal agreement between student and instructor) to complete the work. 

3. Will commencement (the graduation ceremony) be impacted or canceled?

At this time, commencement has been rescheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2020. To protect the health of our students, families, and our community this will continue to be monitored and changes will be communicated as they are made.

4. Is the Student Cupboard available during the college closure?

At this time the Student Cupboard is taking requests for students by email at BTCStudentCupboard@blackhawk.edu. Bags are being prepared for students in need and can be picked up at an arranged time in the circle drive on Central Campus.

5. When will my lab/clinical/practicum resume?

This will be dependent on many factors including Gov. Evers’ Safer-at-Home order as well as if your site will allow students onto their location during their own infection control measures. Please continue to check your Blackhawk email for updates from your instructor(s).

6. I do not have internet access at home. Can you help?

The College has established drive-up WiFi connection points at Central and Monroe Campuses. At Central Campus, you can park outside door 2-18 (north side of campus) or in the circle drive. At Monroe Campus, park outside the main entrance in the lot to the left of the door.

7. Is it possible to meet with my advisor/instructor/coach/etc.?

Absloutely! Advisors and others are still available by email, phone, and Zoom. You can easily schedule an appointment with your Academic Advisor through Starfish (available through your MyBTC login). Once you are on Starfish, you can set up or update appointments with your advisor, connect to your advisor via email, and locate your advisor’s phone number. Your advisor should appear as one of your “Connections” in the “My Success Network” tab.

8. Will the Shuttle be running?

Shuttle services will remain closed until the College reopens to the public. At which time, a modified schedule may be developed based on information available from local, state and federal directives.

9. Are mental health counseling services available to students?

Blackhawk’s Mental Health Counselor is Rachel Jorgenson. She is a resource for all Blackhawk students and is available to help students manage stress and anxiety, get linked to community resources, and apply for emergency funding. Contact Rachel at (608) 757-6964 or counseling@blackhawk.edu.

10. So, how exactly do I use Zoom?

Our Information Technology Team has you covered. There are training videos and resources available in the Student Technology Services Yuja Library (available through MyBTC). The training videos are designed to help you set-up and access Zoom meetings with your instructors and other college staff, including your advisor. You can even use Zoom to collaborate with other students and conduct meetings and study groups.

Got a question that wasn’t answered above? No problem! Please reach out to us at communications@blackhawk.edu.

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