Success Starts Here
With the start of fall semester right around the corner, we asked the college's New Student Orientation team to share their top tips for student success in the upcoming year. By following the tips below, you'll be well on your way to a great year at Howard Community College! Still need to register for classes?
1. Attend New Student Orientation (NSO)
New Student Orientation sessions are scheduled for Monday, August 18 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday, August 20 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Attendees can chat with faculty, meet new and experienced students, and learn about the resources that will inspire success at HCC!
2. Ride the Dragon Wagon shuttle to campus
Finding a parking spot is easy when you let Duncan the Dragon drive! HCC's free shuttle service is convenient and easy to use, and repeated rides can earn you vouchers at Starbucks, Cafe on the Quad, and Simply To Go.
3. Keep your student handbook handy
Your student handbook includes important information on policies and procedures, campus services and resources, emergency information, calendars, and more.
4. Create a myHCC account for online services
myHCC is the center of your digital life at HCC, connecting you to the online tools students use most in a way that's convenient and easy to use. To get started, just visit portal.howardcc.edu and log on using the same username and password that you use to access your student email.
5. Buy your books before the first day of class
Make sure to get your books early so you aren't left behind when class begins. The HCC Bookstore is located on the lower-level of the Rouse Company Foundation Student Services Hall, and offers not only textbooks, but supplies, apparel, and many other items as well.
6. Read and understand your class syllabus
Each class syllabus covers important information for that particular class, including the instructor's contact information, office hours, class objectives and schedule, policies, and more.
7. De-stress at the Wellness Center
Located near the Burrill Galleria in CL-178, the Wellness Center offers a variety of educational materials, educational workshops, awareness activities, and provides students with referrals as necessary.
8. Take advantage of the Library, computer labs, and Learning Assistance Center
Looking for a quiet, comfortable place to get some work done? The HCC Library offers numerous desks, chairs, and couches that are perfect for study sessions and group meetings. The numerous computer labs around campus offer additional quiet space, and the Learning Assistance Center provides tutoring, workshops and math reviews to help students achieve academic success.
9. Connect with HCC on social media
In addition to the college's official social media channels, many departments, groups, and organizations around campus have accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and more. Visit the college's social media portal to see a complete list.
10. Meet with advisors for academic, financial, career, or personal support
Advisors are available to help with questions about majors, transfer requirements, college policies and procedures, and the requirements that apply to you in your unique situation.
Do you have a piece of advice that you'd like to share with the HCC community? Send a tweet to @howardcc or use the #hccadvice hashtag and your advice could show up on our website. Plus, you'll be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win a $10 gift card to the Cafe on the Quad!