ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT

ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT

1. ADMISSIONS

If a student has never attended SMC (New Student) or has been away for one or more semesters (Returning Student), he/she must first file for admission. Paper applications are no longer available. Students must complete an online application by going to http://www.smc.edu/admissions/application.htm.

 Matriculation

·        All student-athletes must enroll in courses that lead to a degree or certificate, or intend to transfer into a four-year college or university. In doing this, they should apply as a matriculate.  

2. ASSESSMENT

The assessment program is designed to promote academic success.

What is assessment?

·        Assessment results provide a base line academic skill level that will help develop a student-athlete's educational plan. Every student who wishes to enroll in a SMC English, ESL, or Math class for the first time must take the English, ESL, or Math assessment test.

·        In some cases, assessment tests can be waived by showing proof of previous college coursework or placement results. Student-athletes can meet with a counselor to discuss this option before their enrollment date.

• Once students officially enroll in an English, ESL, Math, and Chemistry course, they are NOT permitted to undergo assessment again as a means for advancing to higher-level courses.

When to participate in assessment?

• Students must take their assessment tests at the time they turn in the SMC application or soon after. Assessment testing is handled on a walk-in basis.
• Retesting is permitted in English, ESL, Math, and Chemistry after a waiting period of two weeks from the date the test was first taken provided you have NOT started the course sequence for the test you wish to retake.

Why is it mandatory?

• The skills developed in basic English / ESL, Math, and Chemistry courses have a strong effect on successful learning and performance in more advanced classes. The knowledge and skills developed in these basic courses are critical to success in other college courses.

• Students can download sample tests, testing schedules, and placement charts at http://www.smc.edu/assessment/testing_schedule.html.

3. LEARNING DISABILITIES

The Disabled Students Center serves qualified students with disabilities who require help to succeed in their classes. The assistance includes counseling services, technical support, and specialized classes. Any SMC student who has documentation provided by a licensed professional verifying their disability is eligible for services, and must contact the Center for Students with Disabilities to qualify for services (http://www.smc.edu/disabledstudent/06_dss.htm).

Counseling Services – includes vocational and career counseling, academic counseling, and personal counseling.

• Make an appointment to see a DSP&S counselor.
• Download the DSPS application from our website at www.smc.edu/disabledstudent.  Fill it out, and bring it with you to your first appointment.

Technical Support – services are available to students who need them because of their disability related functional limitations.

• These services might include readers, interpreters, test accommodation, and specialized equipment to support individual learning needs.

Specialized Classes - These classes are designed for students with disabilities and are listed in the Schedule of Classes under “Counseling and Disabled Student Services.”

• Classes are available in adapted study skills for learning disabled, personal and social awareness, independent living skills, career planning, job search skills, and adapted computer technology.

Eligibility

• Students who have a verifiable physical, health, communication, psychological, or learning disability qualify. Students who have received the services of high school resource classes or other special classes are likely to qualify.

4.  EOP&S

EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services) is a program that provides educational and financial support services to eligible students who have historically experienced economic and education disadvantages.  As an eligible participant students will receive additional support through counseling, tutoring, financial assistance, and other services designed to help them complete their educational goals.

Who is eligible?

• You may be eligible for EOPS at SMC if you:
  • Are a California resident
  • Meet the State income standards and receive a BOGG A or B Fee Waiver
  • Enroll in at least 12 units upon acceptance (DSPS or students with special cases may be eligible for services in enrolled in less than 12 units)
  • Have NOT exceeded 50 units of AA degree applicable coursework
  • Determined to be educationally disadvantaged (i.e. ineligible for college level English or math, or non-high school graduate, etc.).

How do you join the program?

·                    Apply for and receive the Board of Governor's Fee Waiver (Method A or B).

·                    Attend an EOPS New Student Orientation.  (Check the EOPS office or web site at http://www.smc.edu/eops for dates and times.)

• Complete the English and math assessment tests.
• Meet with an EOPS counselor to complete the eligibility process.
• Officially enroll in 12+ units upon acceptance to the program.

Services

• Instruction

• Student Success Seminar (Counseling 20)
• Orientation to higher education (Counseling 11)
• Educational & self-development workshops
• Additional Benefits
  • Priority enrollment
  • Assistance with completing financial aid forms
  • Peer advising
  • Cultural and social activities
  • Fee waiver for university/college applications
  • Tutoring (English & math)