Dragon Talk Archive

Step UP to Success: Navigating HCC with a Coach in Your Corner

Starting college is a major milestone, but the transition can often feel more like climbing a mountain than a straightforward path. In this episode of Dragon Talk, host Ryan Record explores Howard Community College’s Step UP program, a dedicated initiative that has been guiding students through the complexities of college life for over 20 years. Joining the conversation is Naya Patterson, Assistant Director of Step UP, who provides insight into the program’s long-standing mission of fostering student success through personalized care. We also hear from Sandra Lee, a Step UP Coach, who describes how her mentor meetings focus entirely on the student’s individual needs, honest conversation, and emotional support. Finally, HCC student Zinny shares a firsthand testimonial about the reality of being a student in the program and how having a dedicated faculty mentor helped her turn overwhelming moments into manageable goals. From connecting students to vital campus resources to simply providing a space where someone truly listens, this episode highlights why Step UP is more than just a support program, it is a community. Whether you are a new Dragon looking for guidance or a returning student seeking a stronger connection to HCC, listen in to discover how the right coach can help you reach exactly where you want to be.

Mission: Education–Your Guide to Veteran Resources at HCC

In this episode of Dragon Talk, we’re honoring our veterans and military families at HCC. Join host Ryan Record as he sits down with Assistant Registrar, Lauren Nelson-Smith, VA Cohort Liaison, Jean Melvin, as well as veteran student and Dragon Podcast intern, John Fry, to break down your VA benefits, campus support and resources. Whether you're a veteran beginning your educational journey, a military family member looking for guidance, or a campus community member wanting to better understand veteran life at HCC, this episode offers clarity, connection, and encouragement. Tune in to learn how HCC proudly stands beside those who served—every step of the way.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Training a New Generation of Cyber Experts

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Dragon Talk is celebrating by exploring how Howard Community College is shaping its digital education. Joel Offenberg, Department Head for Computer Science and Cyber Technology, joins host Ryan Record to discuss why cybersecurity is an essential skill for everyone to stay on top of. Learn about the fantastic apprenticeships and career opportunities available to HCC’s computer science/cyber technology students, and how a game-changing National Science Foundation grant is completely revamping the college's Cybersecurity program. If you are looking into career paths that protect our digital information or even want to brush up on your cyber tech know-how, this is a must-listen!

The World is Yours (Part 2): Faculty Perspectives on Global Learning

In this episode of Dragon Talk, host, Ryan Record, once again dives into the HCC Study Abroad Program, but this time shifts focus to the faculty members who make the magic happen. Join him as he sits down with Professor Kling, Chef Milburn, and Dr. Bianchi to hear their unique perspectives on the value of global learning as they discuss the transformative power of teaching students in Bermuda, France, Italy, and Greece. If you're wondering what it takes to study abroad, this episode offers a rich, behind-the-scenes look that might just inspire you to pack your bags and change your life!   Sound and Music Attribution: Splash, Jumping, C.wav by InspectorJ -- https://freesound.org/s/352099/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 200116_1025_FR_TraditionalMusic.wav by kevp888 -- https://freesound.org/s/502673/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Italy Venice Square Day Amb with Live Music_yoh.wav by YOH -- https://freesound.org/s/169535/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Beyond the Ballot: Meet Your 2025-2026 SGA Leaders

In this special episode, we're putting your new SGA leadership team for 2025-2026 academic year under the microscope. Join host Ryan Record and Public Relations Manager Kia McLeod as they sit down with the students who are working diligently to represent your voice and enhance campus life.   You'll hear directly from: * Christione Johnson, SGA President * Maryam Abdurrahman, SGA Vice President * Ayanna King-Smith, SGA Club Liaison * Nadia Bayiga, SGA Secretary   They'll share their visions and goals for the upcoming year. Whether you are a new or returning student, this is your chance to meet the leaders dedicated to advocating for your needs and fostering a vibrant campus community. Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved and make your voice heard at HCC.