The Blazer Compass
The Blazer Compass has been prepared especially for YOU to help make your transition to college life as smooth as possible. JWCC Student Services understands your frustrations. We’ve been listening, and we’ve heard you say, “NOBODY TOLD ME!” So, we’ve put together a list that aims to address many of your questions about life at John Wood Community College and to help you find your path.
Helping You Find Your Path
Do I have to go to orientation?
Yes! Orientation is designed to help you with the transition to college and help you have a successful experience. You can attend orientation at all JWCC campuses. Sign up for orientation.
How do I pay for college?
Log into your SOLAR account to view your tuition bill. For questions, please call the Financial Aid Office at 217.641.4333 (regarding your FAFSA or loans) and the Business Office at 217.641.4211 (regarding all other billing questions).
How do I get my student login information?
Your login information letter is included in your JWCC Welcome Packet. If you encounter any issues, please contact the IT Help Desk at 217.641.4325.
Do I need a student ID?
Yes, and make sure to smile for your picture! Check in with Campus Care (C114) to get your picture taken. Bonus! Your student ID provides discounts!
Where do I purchase books?
Take your schedule and student ID to the JWCC Bookstore, or purchase books online. You can find ISBN numbers on the JWCC Bookstore’s textbook list. For any questions, please contact the Bookstore at bookstore@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4280.
How do I get help from resources on campus?
Ask any JWCC employee for help!
- TRiO supports first generation, low income, or students with disabilities that are 4-year university bound. You can learn more and apply online. For additional information on TRiO, you can email TrioSSS@jwcc.edu or call 217.641.4343.
- Perkins supports Career and Technical Certificate and Associate in Applied Science students. You can learn more and apply online. For additional information on Perkins, you can email perkins@jwcc.edu or call 217.641.4957.
- Did you receive accommodations in high school, such as extra time on tests due to an IEP/504? If so, connect with Disability Services by email at ods@jwcc.edu or by calling 217.641.4343.
- Would you like personal support and assistance with navigating all JWCC and local resources? The Campus Care Team is here to help! Please email campuscare@jwcc.edu or call 217.641.4301.
How do I read my schedule?
Be sure to always check your start and end dates! In the “Days” section, M = Monday, Tu = Tuesday, W = Wednesday, Th = Thursday, M/W = Monday & Wednesday, and Tu/Th = Tuesday & Thursday. Remember to check your class times to avoid being late. The “Build” section refers to the campus location, while the “Room” section shows the classroom you will be in. For online classes, you’ll see “TBA” under “Days” and “Time” and “INTRNT” under the “BUILD” section.
Where can I find information regarding my courses?
- The syllabus (located in Canvas for each course) is crucial as it outlines assignment deadlines, exam dates, grading scales, and instructor expectations. It is your responsibility to know the information and follow the due dates.
- Helpful tip: Combine all of your due dates into one master calendar to help you stay organized and prevent missing assignment deadlines.
What do I do if I have a problem with an instructor?
Always talk with your instructor first. They are there to help! If the issue remains unresolved or you do not feel heard, reach out to the chair of your instructor’s department, and then the dean.
How do I find things in Canvas?
Always open your course and go to Modules in the navigation menu. Only graded assignments will show up on the To Do List and the Calendar. Information provided by the instructor such as lectures, assignment details, PowerPoints to view, videos, etc. will only be seen in Modules. For questions, please email connected@jwcc.edu or call 217.641.4512.
Online Canvas Guided Tours – JWCC are available.
Who do I need to speak with if I want to drop/withdraw from a class?
Talk with your academic advisor. Your advisor will help you navigate the academic and financial factors on dropping/withdrawing from a class. Your academic advisor can be reached at advising@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4355.
Dropping with a refund:
Total refunds will be made to students dropping credit courses based on the following criteria:
- Drops that occur within the first two weeks from the designated start date that are more than eight weeks in length.
- Drops that occur within the first week from the designated start date for courses that are eight weeks or less in length.
Adding a Class:
- The add period is the first 2 days of an 8-week class and the first 3 days of a 16-week class.
When can I go to the library?
Monday – Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to noon. You can use Quincy University’s library on the weekends by presenting your JWCC student ID. The Quincy Public Library is another great resource.
I need to take a test in the testing room. When can I do that?
Monday = Closed; Tuesday & Wednesday = 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.; Thursday = 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Friday = 8:00 a.m. to noon; Special hours can be found on the JWCC Library page.
I need to take a test using Honorlock or Proctorio, but I don’t want to take it at home. Where can I take my test?
You can take your test in the library. Call 217.641.4527 to schedule your testing day and time.
How do I find tutoring?
- Walk-in tutoring
- Get free 24/7 tutoring through Brainfuse
- The Writing Center can help with essays, research papers, and other college writing assignments.
- For citation help, chat, call, or email the library.
How do I research topics for my classes?
Go to the JWCC library webpage and use the search box or the A-Z database list. For questions, please contact the library at 217.641.4537.
Where do I go if I need help with Canvas, ALEKS, Connect, Mindtap, CNow, Honorlock, and other course technologies utilized by instructors?
Go to B132 (in the library) where the Instructional Support/Distance Learning Department is located, email connected@jwcc.edu, or call 217.641.4512.
How do I reset my password?
Call the IT Help Desk at 217.641.4325.
How do I get Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. on my personal computer?
Office 365 is available for free download on up to 5 devices to use at home. Click the “Office 365” button on the BlazerNet LaunchPad.
Can I print on campus? Does it cost?
Yes, you can print on campus! You have a $30 printing balance. You can also print with Mobility Print (note: link will work on-campus only).
What should I do if I don't have a computer/laptop for class?
All JWCC campuses have computers available that you can use anytime campus is open. If you cannot complete your assignments on campus, connect with the Care Coach at celoos@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4301.
Where can I get free audiobooks or eBooks for classes or for fun?
Browse, check out, and download eBooks and audiobooks using the free Boundless app.
Is there streaming media available?
Get free access to thousands of movies, TV shows, and other streaming media through the Kanopy and Films on Demand via the John Wood library.
How do I talk with my advisor?
You can call 217.641.4355, email advising@jwcc.edu, stop by the advising office in person, or make an appointment.
What if I am undecided on my major?
Talk with your advisor (advising@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4355) to research academic paths or talk with JWCC’s Career Services Office at 217.641.4346. Students can make an appointment for PathwayU. PathwayU is a platform that will help you discover your purpose and find careers that fit your interests, values, and personality.
Who do I talk with about transferring to a four-year university?
You will want to talk with your academic advisor (advising@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4355) or your TRiO advisor (TrioSSS@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4343). They can help you navigate the transfer process.
How can I find a job?
Job Link is a resource for students looking for work. For questions, please call 217.641.4346. Students can also qualify for work-study jobs on campus depending on financial aid status. For questions, please call 217.641.4333.
How do I prepare for the job search?
Students can schedule an appointment with Career Services (by calling 217.641.4346) for assistance with a resume, job application, or preparing for an interview.
Who do I talk to about stress, personal issues, or mental health?
JWCC offers FREE personal counseling (Teresa Bertelli – counseling@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4360) and FREE 24/7 virtual mental health services with TimelyCare.
I am the first person in my family to attend college. What do I do?
Connect with TRiO! They can help first-generation transfer-bound students navigate the college journey. Contact them at TrioSSS@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4343. You can apply online.
I am a Career and Technical student, and I need extra support. Who do I talk to?
The Perkins program supports Career and Technical students by offering resources, such as textbook loans, mileage assistance, bus passes, nursing scrubs and shoes, welding kits, and tutoring. For questions, please contact perkins@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4941. You can apply online.
In high school, I had an IEP/504. I received accommodations, such as extra time on tests or had my tests read out loud to me. How do I get that help at JWCC for my classes? Who do I talk to?
Connect with Disability Services at ods@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4343. They can help!
Where can I get extra support with items such as, perishable and non-perishable food items, toiletries, essentials, school supplies, and resource information?
Stop by The Blazer Fuel Station (D004) and Fuel Your Success! The station is open Monday (10 AM – 2 PM) & Thursday (12 PM – 4 PM) or email campuscare@jwcc.edu for a pickup outside of hours. Make sure to check out the Pit Stops around campus for a quick grab-and-go snack too!
What resources in the community can help me?
Community Resources can be found through several different websites:
- United Way of Adams County directory
- Blessing Hospital’s Community Resources directory
- Adams County Health Department’s Family Resource Guide (choose the last option on the page that says “Family Resource Guide – Pocket Size”)
- Illinois Hunger Hotline or call 1.800.359.2163
Connect with JWCC’s Campus Care Team at campuscare@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4301.
Does JWCC have on-campus housing?
No, JWCC does not offer dorms or on-campus housing. However, JWCC has a homeless liaison available (Courtney Loss – Care Coach – 217.641.4301). For assistance, please contact campuscare@jwcc.edu.
How can I access FREE legal services?
Law for Learners connects students to free legal help with bankruptcy, criminal records, estate planning, family matters, and housing. The program’s goal is to help students overcome legal obstacles, empowering them to move forward with their lives and achieve their academic and career goals. Whether you’re already involved in a court case or have a question about a situation that could involve a legal problem, Law for Learners is here for you. To get started, please visit Get Legal Help Illinois and complete the “Tell Us About Yourself” form.
JWCC is a Caring Campus, dedicated to helping our students succeed. To have a one-on-one conversation about available services, please choose any of the topics below, and a staff member will reach out to assist you.