Student Success:
voice: 956.364.4557
toll-free: 800.852.8784
Director:
Norma Salazar
voice: 956.364.4557
Email: Student Success
Mailing Address:
Student Success
TSTC Harlingen
1902 North Loop 499
Harlingen, TX 78550
Location:
The Student Success Office is located in D-121 (The Bio-Medical/Medical Science Building)
Office Hours:
M - F: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

A Guide for Survival and Success in College

Here is what is expected academically from you, the student, while at TSTC:

You are expected to be in class because daily attendance is crucial.  Your instructor should give you a Syllabus or Course Information Sheet, which is a document that is distributed usually during the first week of classes outlining your instructor's expectations.  Keep this document handy when preparing for each class period.  You are expected to give your best effort to learn what is required, to put your course work first and to participate in class.

Go to Class

This image shows students in the classroom. Missing class is worse than skipping chapters in a book.  Attend regularly or you may never figure out what is going on in class.  Remember you paid for your class and to get your money's worth you must attend.  If you fall behind, you are the one ultimately responsible.

Buy and Read Your Textbooks

This is an image of a stack of books. Read your textbook assignment before it is discussed in class.  Underline or highlight important points and jot main ideas in the margins.  This will make review easier.  If you are unable to purchase a book, contact the Support Services Office about the TSTC Lending Library.  Many required books are available to you free of charge, but they must be returned at the end of the semester.

Do All Your Class Work

This is an image of a person studying.Follow instructions or assignments exactly and turn them in on time.  Proofread, do your best, eliminate misspellings, check your work, and take pride in what you do.  When in doubt, ASK!

Take Lecture Notes

This is an image of a notepad.Take complete and well-organized lecture notes to help you concentrate and learn in class and labs - notes you take will come in handy when you study for exams.

Think About What You Learn

This is an image that shows a person thinking. Reflect on what you read and her in your classes.  Talk about new ideas and information with classmates and other people.  Don't just sit in class and walk away wondering what just happened during that last hour.

Communicate

This is an image of two people communicating. Communicate with your instructor(s) if you are having trouble understanding what is being taught.  If you have a situation at home or work that is not allowing you to complete your classroom responsibilities, let your instru ctor know in advance so that he/she can assist you in completing the course.  If you are having trouble communicating with your instructor, then communicate your concerns with the appropriate program chair.  Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to let your instructor(s) know if you are having difficulty with attendance or punctuality and why.  There are many ways you can communicate with your instructors, such as by e-mailing, leaving a voice mail message, and giving a message to the building secretary.

Keep a Calendar/Planner

This is a picture of a calendar/planner. Mark your school calendar with important dates, such as exam dates, project due dates, and event dates.  Try to purchase a planner at our TSTC bookstore in an academic year format which will begin in August and end the following August.

Set Goals

This is an image of a person reaching his/her goals. Why are you at TSTC?  Have a career goal in mind, even if it changes.  Consciously relate your class work to your career goals.  If you are undecided about your major, it is important to decide on a major by the end of your second semester at TSTC.  If you need assistance in declaring a major, the TSTC Counseling Center can assist you in making a career choice.

Establish Time Priorities

This is an image showing a person paying close attention to time. Make your education the top priority in your life and commit your best efforts to getting a college education.

Study For and Take All Exams When Scheduled

This is an image of a person taking an exam. Set aside plenty of time to prepare for tests and never miss an exam.  Make-ups allowed are usually more difficult.  If you do miss an exam, contact your instructor as soon as possible.  Click here for Test-taking tips and other helpful hints.

Enter the Right Field of Study:

There's nothing worse than spending the rest of your life in a career that is not right for you.  Visit the Counseling Center in the Student Services Building and let them help you get on the right path to success.
Computer Drafting & Design Technology students in lab.