South Mountain Community College introduced the Cougar Image Studio last Friday in a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. The studio, which is located in the welcome area in the Student Enrollment Services Building, is a new and improved way for students to not only get their photos taken for campus IDs, but to take headshots for professional use as well.
The idea was formed in April of this year when student employees, Alexander Sirak, Katherine Velazquez, Cameron Valenzuela and Bryce Hurd, came together to find a solution to improve students’ experience when visiting the Admissions and Records Office.
After presenting their proposal to the Student Affairs Shared Governance Council, the group worked to upgrade the space, which was previously using an iPad to take photos. They implemented new camera equipment and backdrops in order to provide students with a way to take high-quality, professional photos.
“The Cougar Image Studio is a place students will visit more than once during their student life-cycle,” said Dr. Nicole Wetzel, SMCC’s Student Services Director. “We welcome excited students with a student ID and we ensure they have a professional headshot to use when they are entering the workforce. It symbolizes we are supporting them throughout their big transitions.”
The project was done in partnership with SMCC’s Career Services to prepare students with the tools and resources needed to support their career, educational and professional goals.
“Students who engage with Career Services will be able to schedule a headshot opportunity for use on LinkedIn, professional profiles, applications, portfolios, graduate or professional school materials and other career-related needs,” said Marquis Scott, SMCC’s Student Services Manager.
Career Services will also be offering special headshot events throughout the year to engage students with these new services.
“These events help students strengthen their professional presence and put their best image forward as they connect with employers and pursue their next opportunity,” said Marquis Scott.
Students, faculty and staff can request a photo ID card by checking in at the welcome desk in the Student Enrollment Services Building. Professional headshots can be scheduled with Career Services by visiting SES 165 or by emailing the center at career.services@southmountaincc.edu.