General Information

Welcome, New Students!

The College Information Office is dedicated to supporting you.  We are here to assist you with your transition to TSTC and to provide the proper guidance so that you may become a successful student and make the best out of your college experience.  Our Admissions Advisors are here to provide information on our excellent programs and to assist you with the admissions process.  Our office coordinates college preparation programs, New Student Orientation and campus tours to serve all of your needs. 

Come visit us at the Student Services Building located on the corner of Loop 499 and Oak Street, or call us at (956) 364-4117 or 1-800-852-8784.

The Basics

Following these steps will get you off to a good start in your academic planning:

• Basic Step One - Contact your Admissions Advisor
• Basic Step Two - Manage Your Time and Studies
• Basic Step Three - Request Tutoring Services
• Basic Step Four - Pay for it
• Basic Step Five - Think Ahead

Basic Step One - Contact your Admissions Advisor

Admissions Advisors -

• Provide information about admission requirements, policies, and procedures;
• Assist students in identifying and pursuing their educational and career goals; and,
• Refer students to appropriate college programs and services.

Do your planning: Carefully read the College Catalog, Student Handbook, departmental brochures, and class schedules to determine which courses you will take.

Plan accordingly: All first-time college students, full or part time and enrolled in a technical program are required to take the Freshman Seminar their first semester in college. Enrollment in and successful completion of the Freshman Seminar is a TSTC prerequisite for continuation in program courses. All first-time college students, full time non-technical program students are required to take the Freshman Seminar their first semester in college. The students dropping or failing the Freshman Seminar are required to continue taking it until completing and passing the course.

Ask for Help: Admissions and Academic Advisors are available to answer questions at orientation and at registration. If you would like help before then, contact an Admissions Advisor at (956) 364-4117.

Admissions Advisors recommend the following:

1. Complete and submit an admissions application, including all the required documents.
2. Apply for financial aid.
3. Attend both the new student and departmental orientation.
4. Seek assessment advise from counseling.
5. Read college materials: orientation packet, college catalog, student handbook, etc.
6. Visit college resources, such as the Library, Housing, and Bookstore.
7. Assess the number of hours you can handle your first semester.
8. Get advised.
9. Research tutoring services.
10. Register and pay early.
11. Understand the general studies required.
12. Find out what your program requires.
13. Check out the Placement Office.
14. Arrange for a suitable study space at home.
15. Find information about special events at TSTC that will enrich your experience and complement your area of study.
16. Check out student professional organizations in your area of study.
17. Get involved in campus life.
18. Stay informed about college deadlines for add and drop, withdrawal, payment plans, graduation and transfer requirements.
19. Make new friends.
20. Put together your own checklist for college success!

Basic Step Two - Managing Your Time and Studies

Time Management plays a crucial role in college. Many students make the mistake of over-extending themselves. First time students are particularly susceptible since the whole college experience is new to them.

Try not to do too much all at once. As a rule of thumb, most studies require two to three hours of study/preparation time for each hour spent in class.

Keep a total life picture in mind as you plan your academic program, and ask yourself these questions:

• How many hours a week do I work? Include transportation time.
• How much time is taken up with family/personal responsibilities?
• What special academic needs do I have that require extra study or preparation?
• Will my family and friends understand when I put schoolwork ahead of them?
• Do I have adequate financial means?

Once your schedule is set, you will want to maximize your time. Take advantage of resources in the library and on the Web that focus on improving study skills and managing time wisely. Your Freshman Seminar Course will assist in this area.

Basic Step Three - Tutoring

Tutoring is free!

Tutoring is easy!

Know when you need help and ask for it. At TSTC, you will get all the help you need to be successful.

For more information about Tutoring Services, contact the Office of Student Success

Basic Step Four - Paying for It

In deciding to attend college, you are making a sound investment in your future. TSTC wants to help overcome any financial barriers that might prevent you from participating in the college experience. TSTC offers a number of funding avenues, such as federal, state, college and private funding sources. Do not let lack of funds keep you from getting a college education!

For more information, contact Financial Aid located in the Student Services Building or call (956) 364-4332.

Basic Step Five - Thinking Ahead

Plan Your Career

You may be thinking you can barely get through registration, let alone delve into thoughts of beyond college. Or you may be someone who has always known what you wanted to do. Either way, TSTC has an abundance of resources to help you plan for your career. Read up, talk to people, and attend events related to your area of interest. Career workshops and informative social gatherings are listed on-line. The Placement Office is a great place to gather information about career planning and potential opportunities for work in your chosen career.