Garrett College Enrollment Hits Record Number

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

Garrett College has begun its fall semester with a record-breaking number of students enrolled. Enrollment numbers will not be official until the cut-off date later this month, but the college's enrollment has risen to 851, which is a 9.5% increase from the fall of 2007.
"This dramatic increase is the result of several factors," said GC president Dr. Paul Dauphinais. "It is in part a result of the Garrett County Scholarship Program, through which the county is making a real and significant investment in the education of its young people."

According to the president, it can also be attributed to "a long standing history of excellent education provided by the faculty at Garrett College." GC graduates who transfer to four-year institution have reportedly earned the highest grade point averages of any Maryland community college. "It is also a result of a concerted effort by our Student Affairs staff to recruit good students, provide excellent services, and create a top notch living and learning environment," added Dauphinais.

College officials state that a major contributing factor for the increase is the experience that GC offers student with its residence halls and student activities. "The college experience is very unique for a two-year college and quite comparable to that of a four-year college."

A large number of students from various parts of Maryland have been enrolling in Garrett College in recent years, as well as students from out of the state. "This year we enrolled students from areas such as D.C., Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York," noted Dean of Students Ed Robinson."What our students are realizing is that we can offer them a true college experience, allowing them to go away to college, stay in our residence halls, and have a slate of activities in which to participate."

The college has seen a major increase in students living on campus this year as well. Since the new residence hall has been completed, which allows the housing of 184 students, the dorms are nearly at capacity.

The school year began with an orientation weekend, a three-day event including food and activities. Residential students were greeted on move-in day by a student welcoming team, pizza, and a movie. Labor also offered a barbecue, Slip 'n Slide, and other outdoor activities.

Several other activities have been planned throughout the school year, including a beach luau, family day, a winter and spring formal, a talent show, and Garrett College Olympics. In addition, the school renovated its loft area over the summer to give students a place to lounge, interact, and relax with one another before, between, and after classes. The loft will also serve as a venue for movie nights, dances, parties, and pool tournaments.

Those seeking additional information may contact Melissa Parker at 301-387-3010 or via e-mail at melissa.parker@garrettcol-lege.edu.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350