Miami Dade College Helps College Students Displaced By Hurricane Katrina

Miami, FL, September 2, 2005--College students whose education has been disrupted by Hurricane Katrina can get help in continuing their education from Miami Dade College. Out-of-state fees have been waived at Florida’s colleges and universities for students from the affected areas. MDC will work with these students and help them enroll at any one of our seven campuses. In addition, students who take up residence in shelters are eligible for waiver of all fees

Those students from Florida who were bound for colleges and universities in the affected states are also receiving help. MDC has already received and assisted several Florida students who were scheduled to attend classes this fall at various colleges and universities in Louisiana and Mississippi. MDC has waived the $50 late fee, admitted and registered them in a one-stop operation.

These students will join classes that have just started or enter the fall mini-term which begins on September 26th. Additionally, students can also register for virtual classes even if they are not in the Miami area.

"Having also been affected by Katrina, and having gone through Andrew, we know how important help from our neighbors can be. It makes such a difference emotionally and economically," said MDC President Dr. Eduardo Padrón. "We are doing our part to let our neighbors along the Gulf Coast know we are thinking about them and working together to help them get back on their feet."

Additionally, given the College’s extensive experience in providing programs to large numbers of refugees and immigrants, MDC is reaching out to the affected states to assist in developing technical and workforce training for displaced workers.

Our students are also doing their part. Through each of the Student Life offices at our various campuses, they have started raising relief funds for those victimized by Katrina. Additionally, the MDC Chapter of the Florida Association of Community Colleges’ (FACC) is accepting contributions to the American Red Cross through campus representatives.

For more information on how to register, prospective students should contact the MDC Call Center at (305) 237-8888.

More information about Miami Dade College is available by visiting www.mdc.edu.