THE HONORS PROGRAM AT VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE

Why join the VVC Honors Program?

Join for smoother transfers to four-year universities, for smaller classes, and for greater depth of discussion and research. In the tough market to transfer, you need every edge you can get, and an Honors degree gives you that edge. It tells an institution you are a hard worker and serious student. That's what they are looking for. In the words of one Cal Poly Pomona Dean, "Send us your Honors students - please!"

Join for the smaller classes. VVC honors classes generally have fewer than fifteen (15) students, giving professors a chance to focus more on each student's questions. There's a supportive environment that grows with the smaller classes. The interesting, odd observation you might not feel comfortable bringing up in a 40-person class may just be the perfect discussion-starter in a smaller class of interested students.

Join for the research and discussion. The modern academic world is all about research, and that's the heart of the VVC Honors Program. Honors courses emphasize research and work at a deeper level of thought. As a member of the Honors Transfer Council of California (HTCC), you may even have the chance to present your research at the annual HTCC student research conference held in mid-spring semester at UC Irvine.

What do I need to join Honors?

A GPA of 3.25 or above. If you're coming out of high school, a high school GPA will do; if you're a semester into VVC, we'll want your VVC records. Just send for an application or download one off this site. (At the home page, click on "Application"). With your application, send transcripts verifying the GPA. Also include an essay on a current issue of your choice. The essay must be 1-2 pages and present a coherent argument taking a stance on that issue. Submit your application to Honors Coordinator, Tim Adell. You may mail or bring it into campus. His office is in the Advanced Technology Center (Building #21), Room #140 (it faces the main computer mall). If you don't know where that is, click here for a campus map.

How do I get the Honors degree?

All it takes is 12 units (four classes) of Honors. They can be in any discipline or taken at any time while you are at VVC. You must also maintain a 3.25 GPA while at VVC.

What if I'm not sure I'm ready for the Program?

You don't have to be a member of the Honors Program to take Honors classes. You don't have to apply to the program or even talk to any Counselor or Coordinator. Just register for an Honors class the same as you would for any other class. Give it a try. If you're interested in joining the program, you may do so at any time. Don't worry if your high school grades were low because you found the courses uninteresting. Many of VVC's best Honors students found themselves here and went on to much better things. If you have a good mind, regardless of whether you used it in high school or not, the VVC Honors Program is interested you.

How do I find out more?

Contact Tim Adell, Honors Coordinator
Location: ATC (Building # 21), Office # 140 (in the computer mall)
VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE
18422 Bear Valley Road
Victorville, CA 92395
(760) 245-4271, ext. 2691