(Estherville)– Officials with Iowa Lakes Community College say a downturn in the economy appears to be the driving force behind an increase in enrollment this summer.
Judy Cook, Executive Dean of Instruction and Enrollment, says the grand total for enrollment, which includes all programs, is 2,073 students…up 8.8 percent from a year ago.
Cook says the biggest increases took place in the general studies area and the Career Option program which leads to Associate in Science degrees. Both areas were up more than 36 percent.
In addition to an increase in the student head count, summer students at ILCC are also taking more credit hours when compared with last year at this time–up nearly 17.7 percent.
Cook says staff members at ILCC have done a good job of helping many laid-off employees find a new direction. She says many have seen their unfortunate news as an opportunity to advance their skills and interests before re-entering the workforce.
