Finally, internships for students and externships for faculty need to be part of a broad-based strategy that highlights available job opportunities in the IT industry in Connecticut. Independent colleges in Connecticut already have established internship programs and look forward to increasing these opportunities in IT companies. In considering this bill, it is critical that you understand that all colleges and universities in Connecticut take every possible and appropriate measure to maintain safe and secure dorms. All independent institutions with dorms have fire safety equipment and regularly followed safety procedures. These include central and individual room smoke detectors, fire drills, fire safety training and pull boxes connected to the fire department.
All dorms meet all current code requirements.
Many independent college dorms already have sprinkler systems or are less than five stories and not included in the mandate set forth in the bill. Installing sprinkler systems in those dorms that do meet the criteria of this bill, however, would be extremely expensive. Public colleges would have access to state bond funds to meet this mandate. We urge you to allow independent colleges and universities access to this same funding source if you choose to pass this bill. I urge your support of this bill which would allow towns to set up scholarship funds to provide assistance to residents who are pursuing postsecondary education opportunities.