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Heartland Community College

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Project RISE is a federal TRIO program (SSS) that motivates and supports students that are first generation, income eligible and/or have a documented disability in pursuit of a college degree.

    Thanks to funding from the Department of Education in the amount of $1,375,520 (2021-2025) along with additional support provided by Heartland Community College and its Foundation we can serve our participants!

    TRiO Programs Include:

    • Upward Bound
    • Educational Talent Search
    • Student Support Services (SSS)
    • Educational Opportunity Centers
    • Training Program for Federal TRIO programs
    • Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program
    • Upward Bound Math-Science
    • Veterans Upward Bond

    For more information about TRIO programs, visit this page. 

  • Project RISE helps you succeed in college, graduate from Heartland, and transfer to the four-year school of your choice.

  • PEER MENTORS know how to navigate college. They meet with you regularly to offer the advice and support you need to stay on track and overcome obstacles that may come your way.

    WORKSHOPS are a very popular part of Project RISE. These sessions can help make your life easier now and in the future!

    THE MATH LEARNING COMMUNITY is a great way to get some extra help. It also gives you a chance to talk with other students going through the same challenges.

    SOCIAL AND CULTURAL EVENTS are something students in Project RISE love. Seeing plays, visiting state parks, and attending concerts are popular activities.

    PROGESS MONITORING with Project RISE staff will help you clarify your educational and career goals.

    COLLEGE VISITS give you an opportunity to see which four-year school is the best fit for you after you graduate from Heartland.

    EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAM will help you explore careers, prepare for work environment and assist with job searches and mock interviews.

    SCED 107 is crucial if you struggle with math and want to successfully complete required math courses.

    SCED 105 will help you develop academic skills, explore careers paths, and grow personally. 

  • Project RISE has numerous workshops to choose from each semester!

    Topics include:

    • What's in your Mental Health Toolbox?
    • Scholarship Info and Prep
    • Study Styles and Test Tips
    • Understanding Credit and Debt
    • Conquer Math
    • Tech 101 (Built for You)
    • Mindfulness through Creative Expression
    • Design your Future (Vision Boards)
    • Investing in the Stock Market
    • Time Management
    • Stress Management
    • Career Exploration
    • And Many More!
  • You are eligible if you meet at least one of these conditions:

    • First-generation college student (defined as neither parent having obtained a bachelor's degree)
    • Limited-income student (defined by federal guidelines)
    • Have a verifiable disability

    In addition, you must meet all of the following criteria:

    • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident 
    • Have an academic need
    • Be enrolled in a degree or certificate program at Heartland Community College
  • After you complete the Project RISE application, you will be contacted to schedule an intake interview with one of the Project RISE staff members if you are eligible.

  • After the interview, we inform you of your status by email. After you receive the email, you can begin utilizing all Project RISE services.

    Acceptance is contingent on eligibility and vacancies in the program.

  • If you are not accepted, the email you receive specifies the reason for this decision. If there is any confusion, the best thing to do is call or come by the office for us to explain specifically why a denial was issued. It is possible that you can submit additional information and appeal the decision or reapply in a future semester.

Project Rise at Heartland Community College

Contact Project RISE

Workforce Development Center (WDC) 1223
1500 West Raab Rd.
Normal, IL 61761
Phone: 309-268-8404
Fax: 309-268-7997
Semester Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm
Email: project.rise@heartland.edu 
Instagram: @projectrisehcc