Hello, my name is Wendie Lee-Jenkins, and I am a new counselor at Henry Ford Community College. I am extremely honored to be given the opportunity to join the outstanding professional staff and family of HFCC. And I am equally honored to have the charge of counseling students with various challenges to succeed in their academic pursuits.
My primary focus is working with students who are facing challenges that impede their academic success at HFCC and future academic pursuits. The program is in the developmental stage and will begin to roll out services to students in the upcoming semesters.

Steps to Assure a Successful Semester
I enjoyed working with students this summer during the hectic period of registration for the fall semester of 2011. And as a student, you are probably settling in to your routine of your course schedule and have begun studying for the courses. You now know where your classes are held and purchased your text books, and are ready to begin your semester.

Here are some tips to assure that your semester goes smoothly:

Do you have all your books?
Make sure you have all books that are required for your classes; review the syllabus your professor gave you.

Add/Drop Deadlines
Know the add/drop deadlines for your classes. Keep in mind that, depending upon whether the courses are over a 8-, 12- or 15-week semester, they will have different drop dates.

Review your Syllabus
Make sure to record important dates in a calendar so you will know when test dates are and when assignments are due for each class. Make note of your professor’s name, email, phone number, office location and hours. Doing this will also help you with time management, and in case of an emergency you know how to reach the professor.

Balance
Maintain balance in your life; give yourself time for relaxation and recreation during the day.

Organize
If you have a family, make sure you organize your family’s schedule. Advise your family and friends when you have scheduled study times.

Expand Your Horizon
Become involved in extracurricular activities around campus to expand your perspective and meet new people. This is also great on your resume. Employers today want well-rounded employees.

Schedule a Career Counseling Appointment to Plan for Winter/2012 Schedule
I know you may be thinking, “Huh?” Yes, registration for winter 2012 begins October 31, 2011, and this is the time to meet with a counselor to discuss your major, or lack of one. You can schedule a half hour appointment to discuss academic evaluations to assure that you are taking the correct courses for your major; or to make sure you are on track for your associate degree or transfer plan.
In regard to a career, do you wonder how to get there from here? Well, the answer is simple: plan for it! The counseling office has a great Career Resource Center where you explore careers and discover the steps to obtain your goal.
If you have any questions, drop by and visit us. As Associate Dean of Counseling Diane Green says, “Our focus is always to help students to be the best they can be!”