Hello New Wildcat !

We are so excited to serve you as a new student here at Pearl River Community College. We’ve created a unique experience just for you. PRCC’s exciting new First Year Experience program is designed for entering students and focuses on success. Our goals are to help you transition to college, get connected and engaged on campus, and achieve your academic goals. All the information provided in this booklet will help you get started on those goals. Another way FYE helps you is through our social media page. Follow us on Instagram, @prccfye, for helpful tips and important reminders throughout the year. This is one of the most exciting times in your life, and to make sure you get started on the right foot, here are a few tips I’d like to share:

1. Many studies show that class attendance is strongly correlated to academic success. So tip #1 is to GO TO CLASS!

2. Learn how to study differently. What worked in high school might not work in a lecture-based classroom. Not only will you be tested on lecture material, but you will also be required to read the textbook and be tested on that as well.

3. Make sure you get enough sleep. Transitioning to a new environment can be challenging, but don’t let your physical health fall to the wayside.

4. Get a planner. Having a planner will allow you to keep track of when assignments are due and what times you have available to study.

5. Enroll in LLS 1313: Orientation. This is a 3-hour elective that counts towards graduation and helps you get acclimated to college life. We also offer a 1-hour version just for transfer students! The main goal of this class is to prepare you to be successful during your entire college career and beyond.

6. Find a mentor or advisor. In your first semester, seek out someone that you feel comfortable with, either an instructor or advisor, and go to them for advice. Whether it’s getting help in picking out a major or just talking about a situation, a mentor could really be key to your success. I look forward to seeing you around campus and you being successful at this whole college thing. As Orientation Coordinator, I am here to help you meet your goals and feel at home while you are a student here. Please do not hesitate to by office for help just to visit. I can’t wait to meet you!

Sincerely,

Emily Sheckells FYE Orientation Coordinator Center for Academic Engagement