Page 126 - Merritt College Student Handbook and Planner 2021-2022

College Hour: Activities and events of college-wide interest are held during College Hour every Tuesday from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., during fall and spring terms. For more information, contact the Student Activities Office at (510) 436-2535, or visit the office in Building R, Room 124.
Counseling Services: Counseling provides the necessary academic support services for students to succeed at Merritt College. Counselors assist students with their educational plans, choice of careers, and recognize the needs of each student who comes in. Students may drop in or schedule appointments during available day or evening hours (see website). Building R, Room 109;
(510) 436-2475 or Counseling.Merritt@peralta.edu .
Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS/Care): EOPS offers financial and academic support to qualified students whose educational and socioeconomic backgrounds may prevent them from successfully attending college. Services include orientation, priority registration, specialized counseling, academic planning, career guidance, academic progress monitoring, basic skills instruction, book services, and transfer assistance. Building R, Room 109; (510) 436-2470 .
Financial Aid: The Financial Aid Office offers assistance to students who are in need of such financial help to attend Merritt College. To be eligible, students must have financial need as defined by the State and Federal Government. Financial aid is offered through fee waivers grants, EOPS, work study, and loans. Students are urged to apply for financial aid as soon as possible. Building R, 113; (510) 436-2465 or merfinaid@peralta.edu .
First-Year Experience: This year-long program was designed to help incoming students ease into college life in a supportive environment. Dedicated faculty, staff, and counselors work closely with student cohorts to make this transition successful. Building R, Room 109F; (510) 434-3972
Food Services: Food services areas at Merritt College are in two locations: the Cafeteria in Building R, Room 131, (510) 434-3590; and outside the entrance of Building A. In addition, the College Store/ Bookstore offers snacks and drinks for sale.
Grants & Special Programs: This office finds connections for students who may have challenges getting through their educational career. There are grants and programs to help students with finances, finding a career, getting a job, or just having someone to talk about issues that are preventing their path to success. Building R, Room113F; (510) 436-2585
Health Services Center: The Health Center offers the following assistance and services to Merritt College students:
• First Aid and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and decongestants.
• Pregnancy tests, safe sex supplies, and feminine hygiene products.
• Vouchers for low-cost vision care and eyeglasses.
• HIV testing twice per month.
• Referrals for physical exams and more-specialized medical care.
• Other services, such as flu shots, massage and acupuncture, are offered periodically and
advertised in advance.
Note: All Health Center services are confidential and free of charge, for students only.
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