Pamlico C.C. reports record fall enrollment

GRANTSBORO - More students are signed up for classes this fall at Pamlico Community College than ever before in one semester.

Jamie Gibbs, the dean of student services, announced this week that the college had set an enrollment record with 471 students registered for classes, 73 more than were registered last fall.

"We've put a lot of effort into our recruitment this summer," Gibbs said. "We've gone to churches and organizations to inform them of what we do. We've made financial-aid presentations, and we had an open house to invite everyone inside."

Gibbs said the higher number of students has forced officials to increase the number of basic classes offered. All students are encouraged to take introductory college and beginner computer skills classes, and the number of those courses has been doubled, Gibbs said.

The increase in students reflects the number of people who see the community college as a link to help during a rough economic time, said Clark Dimond, the interim dean for curriculum.

"It's unfortunate we are entering a time when the economy isn't as bright as we would like," Dimond said. "But a lot of times, people take that opportunity to bolster their skills and their education. We offer the kinds of courses and programs that help people get better jobs and lead better lives."

Gibbs said a strong college presence at Pamlico County High has also increased enrollment. He said many of the students get a taste of what college is like during high school and want to learn more after graduating.

Six former Hatteras Yachts employees also enrolled during a late registration period at the college, after being laid off from the company in August, Gibbs said.

"Our registration process was technically closed at that time," he said. "But helping people in those situations is what we do. This enrollment increase was a joint effort of all members of the faculty and staff, especially Ben Casey, who worked hard to get our name out there."

Enrollment increased slightly this semester at Craven Community College. Sandy Wall, the school's community relations coordinator, said 3,099 students signed up during the first registration period. At the same time last year, 3,082 students were enrolled in classes.