PAS 1000 Brochure

contact

(301) 546-7422 (general number)

pgccinfo@pgcc.edu (general email)

www.pgcc.edu

Introduction

Welcome to College Life at PGCC

Welcome to PGCC! Starting college can feel overwhelming, but with the right tips and support, you can settle in and make the most of this experience. In this brochure, I’m sharing some key advice based on my own first semester experience to help you start strong and avoid mistakes that I did when starting out.

Julio Lopez

Academic Success Tips

Staying Organized

Resources at PGCC

Online and In-Person Advising: One great thing about PGCC is the online support. It allows us to be able to meet with advisors on Zoom. It’s convenient and allows you to get help wherever you are. Tip: Take advantage of virtual advising if you’re busy or off-campus, and stay connected with your advisors to keep on track.

Creating an Agenda: Using an agenda or task list helps keep everything on track. I use a Google Doc where I track assignments and due dates for each week. Checking it daily helps me stay organized and complete assignments on time. Tip: Create a weekly agenda to stay focused, and always know what’s due next.

Tutoring Centers: If I ever struggle with material, the tutoring centers are places I was go to for help. Tip: Don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. The tutors at PGCC are there to guide you, so make the most of these resources to reinforce your learning.

Time Management and Class Planning: One of my biggest challenges was choosing the right classes at the right times. I waited until the last minute, which really limited my options and forced me into inconvenient schedules. Tip: Choose your classes early, and if you can, talk to an advisor to help set a balanced schedule that fits your needs..

Study Habits: When I study, I come up with questions on the spot based on what I’m reviewing, and I try to answer them. If I can’t answer the question then it tells me I need to study more in that subject.. Tip: Make studying active by quizzing yourself as study, it keeps you engaged and helps identify gaps.

Common Challengers In college

Building Resilience

Staying Motivated

Staying motivated in college can be tough, especially during stressful times. One way to stay focused is to remind yourself why you started this journey—whether it’s to reach a career goal, make your family proud, or grow as a person. Keeping your “why” in mind can push you to keep going, even when things get difficult.

Resilience means bouncing back when things get tough. College comes with challenges like tough classes or balancing school and life. Focus on what you can control. Take care of your health by eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest. These habits make it easier to handle stress and stay grounded.

Celebrate small victories along the way. Completing a tough assignment or improving your grades are achievements worth recognizing. Rewarding yourself with something you enjoy can keep you excited about progress. Motivation isn’t always constant, but setting clear goals and appreciating your efforts can make all the difference.

College can feel overwhelming at first. Many students struggle with heavier workloads, homesickness, or balancing school and personal life. In my first semester, I often felt stuck juggling assignments and a part-time job. I realized asking for help from professors, friends, or campus resources was key to staying on track.

Setbacks are opportunities to grow. Instead of seeing them as failures, learn from what didn’t work and try again. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up. A quote I love is, “Fall seven times, stand up eight,” reminding me to keep pushing forward no matter what.

Personal Insights & Motivation

Making Connections

Closing Note

College may seem overwhelming at first, but remember: each challenge is a stepping stone to becoming the person you’re meant to be. Take advantage of PGCC’s resources, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to connect with others. With the right attitude, this can be an unforgettable and transformative experience. Best of luck, and welcome to PGCC

Advice I’d Give My Past Self: If I could redo my first semester, I’d pick in-person classes and schedule my courses early instead of waiting. Getting a head start on planning really does make a difference. Tip: Don’t wait to sign up for classes, early planning makes for a much better and smoother start.

Meeting New People: It can feel intimidating to start conversations, but don’t be shy. If you meet someone you’d like to get to know, just strike up a conversation with them. Tip: Whether in class, a club, or a study group, remember everyone’s new and looking for connections, too.