Every organization has a culture. There are values and behaviors that are associated with success and failure. Bellevue College is no different. It has a unique culture. It is important that students enrolling at BC for their education understand how to navigate the culture at BC successfully.
In this section we will share with you these important values so you are prepared mentally to succeed in the classroom and on campus.
Individualism
You are expected to focus on what is in your best interest. You are expected to make decisions that are best for you. You are expected to be your own advocate. This can be difficult if you come from a background where decisions are made interdependently with other members of the family. Family interests sometimes are more important than individual interests.
Autonomy
You will be expected to work on your assignments by yourself. You will be expected to make your own decisions about your life and your education. This is not to say that there will not be group projects and presentations. However in those situations you are still expected to put in your required contribution independently.
Punctuality
You are expected to meet all your deadlines and appointments. You are responsible for letting the instructor know (in advance) if you will be late. College is driven by important dates and deadlines. If things are not submitted in a timely fashion you can pay a big price. For instance if you do not submit Financial Aid paperwork in time you may not get your application processed in time for you to get the money for school. Assignments that are not submitted on time can make your grade suffer. If you do not show up to class on time some instructors may mark you as being absent. If you are late for an appointment the staff or instructor may not be able to see you until days later if their schedule is busy.
Personal Responsibility
You are expected to take responsibility for your actions and the outcome. The assumption is based on the belief that we control all aspects of our lives. Your instructors and college staff expect that you will behave as an adult. This means that you are expected to take responsibility for your choices, actions, and behaviors. If you are going to miss class it is your responsibility to find out what was discussed in class, make sure that you submit your assignments by the deadline. Missing a day of class does not excuse missing a test date or an assignment deadline. If you are not able to understand the material covered in the class you have to ask questions, get tutoring, go see the instructors or find other ways to learn the materials.
Participation
You are expected to participate in classroom discussion and group projects. You are expected to participate actively in finding solutions when faced with challenges and problems. Colleges want the students to participate in the learning process, as well as, the problem solving process. If you are faced with a difficulty in the classroom you will be expected to participate fully in finding the solution. Very few instructors or staff will want to do all the work in finding a solution while you wait for an answer or a solution. There are times when you cannot be of assistance. In such situations you are still expected to keep in touch with the person working with you on your issue and be willing to visit with them on short notice.
In the classroom you will be expected to participate in discussion, give your opinions, ask questions and not only learn about the subject matter from the instructor but also be involved in increasing your learning by active participation in projects, extra credit opportunities. You have to take part in the activities that will help you get connected to campus organizations, serve in leadership roles, and work on volunteer projects while you are going to school. No one will hand you great opportunities for improving your knowledge, skill, and resume.
