FAQ’s

I don’t know that much about computers and the internet. Can I still do the program?

Yes.

However, you should improve your basic tech skills as much as you can before you begin the Program. You will get more out of it if you are already familiar with the basic operation of a computer. We can provide suggestions for ways to improve your computer skills on your own, or recommend classes.

The part of the Program that deals with Web Development requires basic knowledge that most typical computer users don’t have. Your experience will be more satisfying to you if you try out these subjects before coming to the Program. For example, Adobe Dreamweaver is one application you will be learning; it uses HTML and Style Sheets. This online course will be helpful for you to get familiar with any web topics that are new to you.

If you are unsure, please send an email to the Program Director (csymons@nwic.edu) and give us some sense of what you are able to do on the computer, such as the applications that are comfortable to you, training you’ve had.

What is the class like?

Class meets for 6 hours a day, 4 days a week (Monday through Thursday). There will be optional activities outside class time to add to your skills and knowledge.

Are all expenses covered?

All expenses associated with the Program are covered. Living expenses are not covered by the Program.

My home is quite a distance from Lummi. Commuting will be difficult. Can I still be in the program?

The Student Life Department at NWIC will provide a place to stay and meals for students in the Program. There is a cost involved. The amount is on a sliding scale, and will depend on your specific situation. Please visit the Residence Life website, download the following documents, and complete the information requested on the forms.

• Housing application
• Release of information form
• What to bring checklist

Some tribes will cover travel expenses for training. We suggest that you contact the Training Department of your Tribe directly. In addition, please send an email to the Program Director (csymons@nwic.edu) explaining your needs in detail.

We recommend that you stay at or near the NWIC campus during the 10 weeks of classes. This Program covers a lot of material in a short time. A long commute will take away from your effectiveness. In addition, the Program includes interaction with fellow students and activities outside classtime that are important to your overall success.

We will make every effort to help you deal with housing and meals. We only ask that you also take responsibility for making the program work for yourself.

Do I have to find an internship on my own?

No, we will provide internship opportunities.

If you have already set up a possible internship, please let us know about it. We will work with your situation to make sure that you get the right practical opportunities.

What if I’m not sure I like it?

That’s a good question. But it’s not one we can answer; it’s up to you. The Program involves intense work with computers, and it prepares students for careers in digital media and web development. You can check out your interests with NWIC student services. If you are interested in computers, technology, graphic arts, or other forms of digital media, the Program may provide great enjoyment and satisfaction for you.

The Program will probably be difficult for some people. It is an intense program that prepares people for good jobs within a relatively short time frame.

The most difficult part of the Program for some people will be dealing with themselves (I don’t wanna, I can’t, I’d rather do other things that are more fun, other people are better than me). Your commitment will support you, and the people around you will too. If you just don’t feel that you can commit to the Program and to yourself, this might not be the best thing for you to do.

I’m already a student at NWIC. Should I still do the program?

No. The Digital Media & Web Technology Program is a vocational training program, not an academic program.

However, the classes in the Program are NWIC credit courses. The best thing to do is talk with your advisor(s) to decide the best direction for you.