Navigating and understanding the college system
Cassie Fincher
The first semester can often be crucial to continued success in education.”It’s important to understand the culture, or college system. How does one navigate and understand when to register and drop classes,” said Joni Grover, student affairs.
Grover stressed establishing a time management approach to school and recognizing that what one wants to get out of the class is what they’re willing to put into the class.
“This is very valuable. It sets the foundation for what they are actually going to accomplish and how they feel about returning the next semester,” she said.
Starting in October, students may begin registering for classes. Knowing what classes they wish to take is a key factor in preparing for the next semester and deciding on a major.
“It is important for students to take the basics and look at the classes that are offered and say, ‘I have an interest in that and its going to excite me and keep me motivated and continue going to college,'” she said.
Brittanie Jarrell, a mortuary science major, stated that there is an abundance of available information.
“Getting all the information that you can is important because I know that I came with a game plan, but I’m always hearing something different,” Jarrell said.
Many students have used community college as a stepping stone before going to universities.
Grover stated that planning and preparation are necessary when transferring from a community college to a university.
“Research what is needed for transferring and scholarships. Investigating what the admissions criteria are because then you can tailor your experiences at the community college to help advance that admissions application and bring it up a notch,” she said.
Students are more likely to continue their education because of the relationships they develop that create the experience.
“As you meet people in school and you find commonalities, they can spark a conversation and that can sometimes grow in a friendship,” explained Grover.
“Having those connections inside and outside of the classroom do help the students retentions and feel a part of (school).”
Jasmine Svetic, a mechanical engineering major, stated the hardest part for some may be controlling how social they are.
“Don’t go to too many parties until you get a grasp on what you are doing. Stay focused on school, at least for a little while. Then you can do stuff like party,” she said.
Jarrell detailed the importance of furthering one’s education.
“I think the whole college experience is important because it helps you grow and gives you skills you can use in the workplace,” Jarrell said.
