about counseling 12

Enroll in Counseling 12 On-line...
Instructor, Michael Byers, LCSW

Introducing Counseling 12 On-Line.

This class is about you...

The Web has vast resources for career planning and management. This class is about you--and learning more about how to find work situations and relationships that feel right.

In this class, you will learn to:

• Complete an in-depth self assessment.
• Clarify your values, interests, and abilities.
• Explore the latest career opportunities.
• Develop contemporary job seeking skills.
• Create an effective career portfolio.
• Obtain valuable feedback and ideas.

Do it when you want.

This class is flexible. You can complete assignments and participate in the class at times that fit your schedule--any time of the day or night.

Access your power.

People who have a good sense of who they are, current information about career options, and the ability to market themselves effectively, can be in-control of their career lives.

Learn to effectively develop and manage your career.

This class teaches students how to be career self-reliant, in charge of their own career future, and better able to reach their potential.

Connect with others.

The class involves discussions designed to heighten your awareness of your values, interests, personality and other qualities. You will be invited to share your personal experiences with the world of work or, if you are still in school, your thoughts and concerns about entering the workforce. Unlike a traditional classroom, everybody has the potential to be heard.

Only students and the instructor are allowed within the actual classroom site. Because the class is closed to the public, students get a chance to share ideas, reflections and concerns. It has been common for students to develop friendships that continue beyond the class.

Students are encouraged to meet with the instructor individually to discuss career, academic and personal concerns, as well.

Learn to be more effective.

Students will learn to utilize web-based and face to face contacts--the best of both worlds--to their advantage.

Students will meet with people in fields that interest them and see, firsthand, what careers are like. They will experience the sights, sounds and other features associated with various occupations. In the process, they will build valuable contacts.

This class works within the Web, the world's greatest library. Learn to tap its power and make it work for you.

Develop an Action Plan.

Students will learn how to develop a career action plan, an electronic resume and on-line portfolio. They will also identify the steps, and create the tools, to put goals into action.

Get CSU GE, and Associate Degree, credit.

This course fulfills the 3-unit requirement in Category E, for both California State University and West Valley College general education.

Connect anywhere.

Anywhere you can find the web, you are in. You could be in Tahiti and still complete this class. With a web-based e-mail account, the class is available when you need it, 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

No special skills required.

Students do not need any special computer skills--just a willingness to use the resources of the Web and correspond via the Internet.

Many of the very best students in class have been adult students returning to college. Some have had very limited or no previous computer skills.

What some students might lack in computer skills, however, they compensate with maturity, willingness to learn and desire to improve their lives through a comprehensive career assessment planning process.

Not too far into the class, students are "surfing" successfully and learning how to use the resources of the Web to their benefit. That said, the class is not for everybody....

Please take the self-test to evaluate further your readiness for Counseling 12 Online.

Who should enroll?

This class is great for adult re-entry students, as well as younger students who are willing to put their thoughts and feelings into words. Students will be asked to share their reflections and ideas with other students and the instructor in a private group format.

The most successful students are self-directed learners, interested in developing a deep understanding of themselves, in the context of career/life planning and management.

There is considerable support and warmth generated among students, as they share and learn from one another. It's a powerful process.

Unlike a traditional classroom, it is not possible to sit in the back of the room (not participate) and pass the class.

If you have not done so already...

Please take the self-test now to evaluate your readiness for Counseling 12 Online.

What do students say about the course?

"My experience in this class was awesome. I am so grateful and thankful that I was able to enroll at such a short notice.

This class has made huge positive changes in my life. It forced me to take a look at my wants, needs and desires. It also helped me to identify my skills and abilities, as well as discovering that I was not alone in my fears and doubts.

I learned so much from the assignments, workbook exercises, and most importantly my fellow classmates. I am now empowered to strive for my goals and dreams knowing that I have, or will have by the time I graduate, all the skills and abilities to make my dreams come true.

I am truly grateful to my instructor and classmates for their continued support and encouragement. I can't think of any ways to improve this class other than to make it mandatory for all new or returning students.

Keep up the great work Mr. Byers!!!"

--Dawn M.

"My experience with this class has been invaluable. The lesson plans were easy to follow and required me to think in depth, probably for the first time, about my career as something I'd be happy with.

I now have a career plan to work with and it's one I feel excited about. Your insight, Michael, was invaluable as well.

I definitely had to WORK for these 3 units! I honestly don't have any suggestions on how to improve the class. It seems perfect as is!

It's been a pleasure learning about myself and the values I can bring to an employer. Thank you!"

--Kathie S.

"I feel this class was excellent, particularly for me. When I decided to return to finish my degree, I did not have a clue what I wanted to major in. This class helped me realize in a very natural and not pressured way, where my true interests lie.

Mr. Byers, I think you did an excellent job giving us constructive feedback and recognition!

Much thanks,"

--Jenny S.

"This class has been a very positive experience for me, and I have gained a lot of important insight into my future plans. I enjoyed the group feedback and the feeling of being part of a group.

The course materials were challenging, but very useful, the homework was a little more than I had first anticipated, but not unreasonable for a 3 unit class.

I have signed up for another on- line class next semester. I can only hope the experience is a rich as this one.

Michael, thank you for you help, you have been extremely patient with all of us, you are a capable teacher and counselor, and your ability to remain tactful even when the going gets tough is commendable.

I have learned a lot from you."

--Vicky F.

"When I first enrolled in this class, I figured it would be a cake walk. It was on-line so I thought there wasn't going to be a real teacher and I could basically do what I wanted, when I wanted.

I also had the assumption that since we all wanted to find a career goal, someone or something would tell us what we were looking for. Fortunately, this wasn't the case.

We should all feel lucky for having Mr. Byers as a teacher and this class because I learned a whole lotta stuff about myself; where I'm going, what I want out of life, and helpful ways to problem solve situations.

In this day and age you need a solid idea of what you want, because nothing is going to be handed to you. Not a job, not the life you dream of, and not a million bucks, unless you play the lotto and cheat or something.

This class gave us a chance to take time and think about what we wanted in our life.

I wouldn't change a thing regarding this class...except possibly an asterisk in the class schedule saying "not a cake walk, but extremely useful material you can use for the rest of your life!"

--Justin S.

"This class has been a tremendous help for me. I only took the class because I needed a GE credit in this category.

Since I kind of had an idea of what I wanted to do as a profession I thought that I would just breeze through the class and it would be an easy A. But it wasn't that easy.

I really had to look inside myself and evaluate what I was doing with my life.

The assignments also made me realize that these decisions that I am making will have a huge impact on my life. I also was not aware of all of the opportunities that are out there.

I was extremely narrow minded at the beginning of this course. Now I feel like there are hundreds of doors that are open to me and with many opportunities behind them."

--Amy M.

It's easy to get started.

• Register for the class on-line or in-person, and update your email address.

• New Spring 2009... Consider add my Counseling 5 class. Get the best of career planning, along with the latest strategies on effective study techniques and personal growth. It's open now: Couns 005, Section 73669.

• Not enrolled in Counseling 12? You have two options to add the class. Click here for instructions.

• Buy the book:

The Career Fitness Program: Exercising Your Options, 8th edition, by Dianne Sukiennik, William Bendat, Lisa Raufman. It is available in the West Valley College Bookstore.

• By the end of the first week of class, "getting started" instructions will be sent to the email address you submitted to Admissions and Records.

• Log-on to Angel by the end of the first week of the semester.

Throughout the class... be sure to sign any email correspondence with your full name (as it is on file with Admissions and Records).

Strategies for Success:

Make your own schedule.

Look at your calendar and schedule regular times to participate in the class. Even though there are no regular class meetings, it can be helpful if you make your own schedule--based on your own availability and needs. You are more likely to participate if you have already committed to a regular time to be involved.

Get a web-based e-mail account.

If you are new to e-mail, I highly recommend that you use a web-based e-mail account that you dedicate to the class--especially is you anticipate being away from your primary computer during the semester.

You can access the class anywhere you find the Web. You'll also have all class correspondence in one place, free of other e-mail.

A few of the more popular options (there are many others) include:

• Yahoomail
• Hotmail

Use your name in your e-mail address.

Consider using your name in the e-mail address you create for your class correspondence. It will make it easier for the instructor to identify you and your work.

Use the underscore symbol, for example, jane_doe@yahoo.com, to connect your first and last names, if you like. (The more unique characters you have in a row, the more likely you are to get the address you want).

Plan your Internet access.

Plan where you will access the Internet. All WVC students can use fast computers in the Tech Center. The WVC Library, and other community libraries, have free Internet access.

For speedy Web access, and sheer pleasure when surfing, consider installing a DSL or cable Internet connection. (Once you experience the speed, you will never want to go back to a traditional telephone modem).

Download the latest version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. Earlier versions are, in some cases, unable to access all Web-based resources.

See you on the Web!

--Michael Byers

last update: 1/29/09



		This class is about you... The Web has vast resources for career planning and management. This class is about you--and learning more about how to find work situations and relationships that feel right. In this class, you will learn to: • Complete an in-depth self assessment. • Clarify your values, interests, and abilities. • Explore the latest career opportunities. • Develop contemporary job seeking skills. • Create an effective career portfolio. • Obtain valuable feedback and ideas. Do it when you want. This class is flexible. You can complete assignments and participate in the class at times that fit your schedule--any time of the day or night. Access your power. People who have a good sense of who they are, current information about career options, and the ability to market themselves effectively, can be in-control of their career lives. Learn to effectively develop and manage your career. This class teaches students how to be career self-reliant, in charge of their own career future, and better able to reach their potential.



		The class involves discussions designed to heighten your awareness of your values, interests, personality and other qualities. You will be invited to share your personal experiences with the world of work or, if you are still in school, your thoughts and concerns about entering the workforce. Unlike a traditional classroom, everybody has the potential to be heard. Only students and the instructor are allowed within the actual classroom site. Because the class is closed to the public, students get a chance to share ideas, reflections and concerns. It has been common for students to develop friendships that continue beyond the class. Students are encouraged to meet with the instructor individually to discuss career, academic and personal concerns, as well.



		Students will learn to utilize web-based and face to face contacts--the best of both worlds--to their advantage. Students will meet with people in fields that interest them and see, firsthand, what careers are like. They will experience the sights, sounds and other features associated with various occupations. In the process, they will build valuable contacts. This class works within the Web, the world's greatest library. Learn to tap its power and make it work for you. Develop an Action Plan. Students will learn how to develop a career action plan, an electronic resume and on-line portfolio. They will also identify the steps, and create the tools, to put goals into action. Get CSU GE, and Associate Degree, credit. This course fulfills the 3-unit requirement in Category E, for both California State University and West Valley College general education. Connect anywhere. Anywhere you can find the web, you are in. You could be in Tahiti and still complete this class. With a web-based e-mail account, the class is available when you need it, 24-hours a day, seven days a week. No special skills required. Students do not need any special computer skills--just a willingness to use the resources of the Web and correspond via the Internet. Many of the very best students in class have been adult students returning to college. Some have had very limited or no previous computer skills. What some students might lack in computer skills, however, they compensate with maturity, willingness to learn and desire to improve their lives through a comprehensive career assessment planning process. Not too far into the class, students are "surfing" successfully and learning how to use the resources of the Web to their benefit. That said, the class is not for everybody.... Please take the self-test to evaluate further your readiness for Counseling 12 Online.



		This class is great for adult re-entry students, as well as younger students who are willing to put their thoughts and feelings into words. Students will be asked to share their reflections and ideas with other students and the instructor in a private group format. The most successful students are self-directed learners, interested in developing a deep understanding of themselves, in the context of career/life planning and management. There is considerable support and warmth generated among students, as they share and learn from one another. It's a powerful process. Unlike a traditional classroom, it is not possible to sit in the back of the room (not participate) and pass the class. If you have not done so already... Please take the self-test now to evaluate your readiness for Counseling 12 Online.



		"My experience in this class was awesome. I am so grateful and thankful that I was able to enroll at such a short notice. This class has made huge positive changes in my life. It forced me to take a look at my wants, needs and desires. It also helped me to identify my skills and abilities, as well as discovering that I was not alone in my fears and doubts. I learned so much from the assignments, workbook exercises, and most importantly my fellow classmates. I am now empowered to strive for my goals and dreams knowing that I have, or will have by the time I graduate, all the skills and abilities to make my dreams come true. I am truly grateful to my instructor and classmates for their continued support and encouragement. I can't think of any ways to improve this class other than to make it mandatory for all new or returning students. Keep up the great work Mr. Byers!!!" --Dawn M. "My experience with this class has been invaluable. The lesson plans were easy to follow and required me to think in depth, probably for the first time, about my career as something I'd be happy with. I now have a career plan to work with and it's one I feel excited about. Your insight, Michael, was invaluable as well. I definitely had to WORK for these 3 units! I honestly don't have any suggestions on how to improve the class. It seems perfect as is! It's been a pleasure learning about myself and the values I can bring to an employer. Thank you!" --Kathie S. "I feel this class was excellent, particularly for me. When I decided to return to finish my degree, I did not have a clue what I wanted to major in. This class helped me realize in a very natural and not pressured way, where my true interests lie. Mr. Byers, I think you did an excellent job giving us constructive feedback and recognition! Much thanks," --Jenny S. "This class has been a very positive experience for me, and I have gained a lot of important insight into my future plans. I enjoyed the group feedback and the feeling of being part of a group. The course materials were challenging, but very useful, the homework was a little more than I had first anticipated, but not unreasonable for a 3 unit class. I have signed up for another on- line class next semester. I can only hope the experience is a rich as this one. Michael, thank you for you help, you have been extremely patient with all of us, you are a capable teacher and counselor, and your ability to remain tactful even when the going gets tough is commendable. I have learned a lot from you." --Vicky F. "When I first enrolled in this class, I figured it would be a cake walk. It was on-line so I thought there wasn't going to be a real teacher and I could basically do what I wanted, when I wanted. I also had the assumption that since we all wanted to find a career goal, someone or something would tell us what we were looking for. Fortunately, this wasn't the case. We should all feel lucky for having Mr. Byers as a teacher and this class because I learned a whole lotta stuff about myself; where I'm going, what I want out of life, and helpful ways to problem solve situations. In this day and age you need a solid idea of what you want, because nothing is going to be handed to you. Not a job, not the life you dream of, and not a million bucks, unless you play the lotto and cheat or something. This class gave us a chance to take time and think about what we wanted in our life. I wouldn't change a thing regarding this class...except possibly an asterisk in the class schedule saying "not a cake walk, but extremely useful material you can use for the rest of your life!" --Justin S. "This class has been a tremendous help for me. I only took the class because I needed a GE credit in this category. Since I kind of had an idea of what I wanted to do as a profession I thought that I would just breeze through the class and it would be an easy A. But it wasn't that easy. I really had to look inside myself and evaluate what I was doing with my life. The assignments also made me realize that these decisions that I am making will have a huge impact on my life. I also was not aware of all of the opportunities that are out there. I was extremely narrow minded at the beginning of this course. Now I feel like there are hundreds of doors that are open to me and with many opportunities behind them." --Amy M.



		• Register for the class on-line or in-person, and update your email address. • New Spring 2009... Consider add my Counseling 5 class. Get the best of career planning, along with the latest strategies on effective study techniques and personal growth. It's open now: Couns 005, Section 73669. • Not enrolled in Counseling 12? You have two options to add the class. Click here for instructions. • Buy the book: The Career Fitness Program: Exercising Your Options, 8th edition, by Dianne Sukiennik, William Bendat, Lisa Raufman. It is available in the West Valley College Bookstore. • By the end of the first week of class, "getting started" instructions will be sent to the email address you submitted to Admissions and Records. • Log-on to Angel by the end of the first week of the semester. Throughout the class... be sure to sign any email correspondence with your full name (as it is on file with Admissions and Records).



		Make your own schedule. Look at your calendar and schedule regular times to participate in the class. Even though there are no regular class meetings, it can be helpful if you make your own schedule--based on your own availability and needs. You are more likely to participate if you have already committed to a regular time to be involved. Get a web-based e-mail account. If you are new to e-mail, I highly recommend that you use a web-based e-mail account that you dedicate to the class--especially is you anticipate being away from your primary computer during the semester. You can access the class anywhere you find the Web. You'll also have all class correspondence in one place, free of other e-mail. A few of the more popular options (there are many others) include: • Yahoomail • Hotmail Use your name in your e-mail address. Consider using your name in the e-mail address you create for your class correspondence. It will make it easier for the instructor to identify you and your work. Use the underscore symbol, for example, jane_doe@yahoo.com, to connect your first and last names, if you like. (The more unique characters you have in a row, the more likely you are to get the address you want). Plan your Internet access. Plan where you will access the Internet. All WVC students can use fast computers in the Tech Center. The WVC Library, and other community libraries, have free Internet access. For speedy Web access, and sheer pleasure when surfing, consider installing a DSL or cable Internet connection. (Once you experience the speed, you will never want to go back to a traditional telephone modem). Download the latest version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. Earlier versions are, in some cases, unable to access all Web-based resources. See you on the Web! --Michael Byers