Dragon Talk

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.

The World is Yours (Part 1): HCC's Study Abroad Program

Buckle up, Dragon Country! On this episode of Dragon Talk, we’re taking off into the exciting world of Howard Community College’s Study Abroad Program. What if your next classroom was a world away—exploring ancient ruins, immersing yourself in vibrant new cultures, and gaining global experience that complements your degree?
Hear from students who’ve traveled abroad and get expert advice on how to make international study part of your academic journey. Whether you’re curious about logistics, scholarships, or cultural adjustment, this episode will help you turn those travel dreams into reality.
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Dragon Talk is hosted by Ryan Record & produced by Howard Community College.
Music Attribution:Title: (Ambient) BreathAuthor: Kirk OsamayoSource: Free Music ArchiveLicense: CC BY-SA

Student Success Stories: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

In this inspiring episode of Dragon Talk, join us as we hear from Kirpa and Dayana, two remarkable students who have faced significant hurdles but refused to be defined by them. They share their personal journeys, revealing how setbacks became catalysts for self-improvement and ultimately fueled their academic success. Discover how their resilience, determination, and a refusal to quit can also help you emerge stronger and more focused in your own pursuits.

Navigating Student Mental Health: A Candid Discussion with Natalie Williams

Join Dragon Talk for a special episode dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month, featuring an insightful interview with Natalie Williams, the Mental Health Counseling Director at Howard Community College. We delve into crucial topics, resources and support systems available on campus, and the importance of prioritizing well-being during your college journey.

From Campus to Career: A Celebration of Community Colleges and Apprenticeships

Dragon Talk celebrates Community College Month and National Apprenticeship Day with esteemed guests, AT&T Apprentice Anderson Jaggernauth, MACC Executive Director Dr. Brad Phillips, and MACC President and Howard Community College Board of Trustees Interim Vice Chair Felícita Solá-Carter. Hear their inspiring stories and expert perspectives on how Howard Community College is shaping bright futures and building skilled workforces!

Banned Books Week

Every year, in late September or early October, book lovers nationwide celebrate their freedom to read as part of Banned Books Week. The idea of Banned Books Week is that the freedom to explore new ideas and different perspectives is a vital right in our country, and that right is under threat. Howard Community College faculty, staff, and students put on their own celebration of Banned Books Week here on HCC’s campus. Join Dragon Podcasts as we get the inside scoop on what this celebration is all about. 
 

Dragon Talk: National Community College Month

Howard Community College is excited to present Dragon Talk, a new student-focused podcast where we hear from our very own HCC students. Our first episode celebrates National Community College Month by discussing the community college experience with current HCC students. We take a look at what community colleges provide: quality education, affordable prices, and community-building for people of all ages. 
Sources: - COE - College Student Employment (ed.gov) - COE - Price of Attending an Undergraduate Institution (ed.gov) - Celebrating our Nation’s Community Colleges - ED.gov Blog