First-Year Student Checklist

Santa Monica College
Student Support
New Students
First-Year Student Checklist

First-Year Checklist

You have what it takes to succeed in college! This checklist will help you stay on track with key steps.

PLEDGE: I am capable and committed to my education journey. I will take steps to reach my goals, recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, and make the most of my first year.

Download now and start your college journey stress-free!

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Important Ongoing Tasks

Check your SMC email daily
Know your class location and the transportation options available
Meet with your instructors to get support
Attend exciting campus events and workshops to help support you (smc.edu/calendar)
Check your unofficial transcript for final grades after each term

July

Participate in a summer program
Apply/complete Financial Aid (FAFSA or CA Dream Act)
Make an Academic Counseling Appointment
Pay fall fees (due early August)
Complete or Enroll in Counseling 20 and/or Counseling 12

August

Attend at least one "New Student" Event
Explore (and join) a Student Support Program
Check to see if you are eligible for SMC Promise
Explore support available through the Center for Student with Disabilities (if applicable)

September

Introduce yourself to your fall class instructors
Check your SMC email and Canvas for important information
Visit the Bodega and explore Basic Needs resources
Review your syllabi and create a study schedule (Be aware of deadlines)

October

Make an Academic Counseling appointment
Make a Career Counseling appointment
Check out the Center for Wellness & Wellbeing services
Access FREE tutoring on campus and/or online
Check out Student Clubs to join (Club Awareness & Club Row)

November

Enroll in winter and spring classes
Explore mentorship opportunities
Review your course progress and prep for finals
Create your final exam study schedule

December

January

Introduce yourself to your winter class instructors
Create a study schedule for winter classes
Pay spring fees (due mid-January)
Follow up with Career Counseling
Update your Area of Interest in Corsair Connect
Explore (and join) a Student Support Program

February

Introduce yourself to your spring class instructors
Access FREE tutoring on campus and/or online
Join a student club

March

Check out the Center for Wellness & Wellbeing Service
Utilize Basic Needs Resources
Reminder: Submit Financial Aid application (if not done in December)

April

Make an Academic Counseling appointment
Apply for internships, work, and/or volunteer experiences

May

Enroll in summer and fall classes
Review your course progress and prep for finals
Create your final exam study schedule

June

Congratulations! You just finished your first year of college! You’ve learned a TON! Take a moment to reflect on this major accomplishment. You deserve it!