Academic, Transfer, and Personal Counseling Services
EOPS counseling is at the center of your experience in the program. It is more than
just selecting classes—it is a space where you can ask questions, think through decisions,
and build a clear path toward your goals with consistent support along the way.
Our counselors work closely with you to help you stay on track, make informed decisions,
and move forward with confidence. Every conversation is focused on helping you understand
your options and take the next step in a way that makes sense for you.
Whether you are just getting started, exploring your options, returning after time
away, or preparing to graduate or transfer, EOPS counselors are here to support you
throughout your journey.
EOPS counselors partner with you in a hands-on, personalized way to help you navigate
college successfully. This includes:
Develop a Student Educational Plan (SEP) that maps out the exact courses you need each semester
Break down your short-term and long-term goals into clear, manageable steps
Adjust your plan as your goals, interests, or circumstances change
EOPS Counseling Requirement
EOPS counseling is a required and essential part of your participation in the program.
To remain active in EOPS and continue receiving services such as priority registration support, book vouchers,
and ongoing program assistance, all students must complete three (3) counseling contacts during each fall and spring semester.
These required contacts are intentionally scheduled throughout the term to help you
stay organized, make informed decisions, and keep moving forward toward your academic,
career, and transfer goals.
Who This Applies To
This requirement applies to all EOPS students, regardless of:
The number of units you are enrolled in
Whether you are a new or continuing student
Your academic standing or progress
Even if you feel confident in your plan, these check-ins are required to ensure you
remain on track and aware of important deadlines, updates, and opportunities.
EOPS Spring 2026 Counseling Contact Dates
Staying on schedule with your counseling contacts is important. Each contact has a
specific purpose to help you stay organized and prepared.
1st Counseling Contact
January 12 – March 13
Update a current educational plan each semester with an EOPS counselor. If you have
an updated educational plan from another department, an EOPS counselor needs to review
it.
2nd Counseling Contact
March 16 – May 1
Meet with an EOPS counselor to discuss progress in reaching educational goals for
the term and plan your summer/fall 2026 courses in preparation for your priority registration
date.
3rd Counseling Contact
May 4 – June 18
The purpose of this contact is to help you prepare for the next term or to make future
plans if you are graduating, receiving a certificate, or transferring.
Book an EOPS Counseling Appointment
For Current EOPS Students
Students can visit the EOPS office located on the SMC Main Campus, Student Services
Center, Room 238, for assistance with scheduling an appointment. Additionally, students
can call our office at 310-434-4268 for help with booking an appointment over the
phone. These services are available during our in-person hours, which are listed on
our homepage.
Email EOPSappointment@smc.edu to book your next counseling appointment. You have the option of booking an in-person,
video, or phone appointment. Please include the following:
First and Last Name
SMC ID Number
Days/times you are available
Specific EOPS Counselor (optional)
Indicate type of appointment (in-person, video or phone)
The online booking system allows current EOPS students to book a phone appointment.
If you prefer a video appointment, please email the EOPSappointment@smc.edu to request
a switch from phone to video and vice versa.
Step 2: Under theSMC Quick Link Section(left hand side of the screen), find Book a Counseling Appointment.
Step 3: SelectBook a Counseling Appointment.
Step 4: SelectEOPS Programfrom the drop-down menu.
Step 5: Select a day/time that works for you.
Step 6: Reserve your appointment.
EOPS Counseling Policies
Three counseling visits must be completed with an EOPS counselor by the end of each fall and spring semester to remain in good standing. Students must meet with an EOPS counselor before adding, droping out of courses.
Missed contacts will impact your eligibilty for EOPS Services.
Students who do not meet with an EOPS counselor at least once during the primary semester will be exited from the program. For details please refer to the EOPS Mutual Responsibility Contract.
Contacts may be scheduled up to two weeks in advance by calling us at 310-434-4268 or emailing eopsappointment@smc.edu.
Appointments are first-come, first-served.
Each appointment must be at least 2 weeks apart within the required time frames.
Students are responsible for scheduling their own appointments to remain in compliance.
Arrive 5-10 minutes early to check in at the front desk or via zoom.
Be prepared with your SMC student ID number in order to check-in for your appointment.
If late by more than 5 minutes, your appointment may be canceled you will need to reschedule.
Notify the office if you need to cancel or reschedule in advance.
Be ready to answer your phone or log in to Zoom on time.
Prepare any questions, goals, or updates you wish to discuss with your counselor.
Bring any academic plans, educational goals, or forms needed for discussion.
Be ready to engage fully to ensure your contact is counted for the term.
Your EOPS counselor will ask you to verify your identity during phone or video appointments. This may include answering verification questions or turning on your camera to confirm your identity at the start of your session.
If you miss an appointment without advance notice, it is marked as a No Show.
After (2) Now Shows, your ability to schedule future appointments may be restricted.
Students with two or more No Shows in a term will lose eligiblity for a book voucher in the following
term.
Always call or email in advance to cancel or reschedule if you cannot attend.
