Lakewood, WA – It’s “Black Friday” on the last Monday in November at Clover Park Technical College. Three students, Teresa Thompson, Amy Finnerud, and Melissa Linear, showed up at 4:30 a.m. to be first in the registration line – a line that formed through the entire length of the administration building. So after what is called, the largest shopping day of the year, people showing up at stores during nontraditional hours, we now have students doing the same. Instead of buying a toy or the latest electronic gizmo, they are hoping to get into class.
“The state’s economic picture has left us with less staff and decreased budgets, but like every other two-year college in the state we are focused on student access and success and will do what it takes to ensure that people have a chance to change their lives. We truly appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as the staff at Clover Park assists those who wait in these long lines,” said Dr. John Walstrum, President. Long lines and lots of people are what students are used to experiencing during the holiday shopping season, the same now holds true for college.