What makes us successful? Is it the number of students we enroll or the number of students we graduate? Is it how many faculty who have Ph.D.’s or how many awards our faculty have won? Is it the percentage of the state budget we receive or the percentage of the community who support us?

The faculty and staff of TCC have been asking these and other questions and having a lot of conversations about our values and how we can further strengthen student success leading up to the start of the fall semester.

Two weeks ago, I authorized the closing of the entire College for our Student Success Summit, an important day-long event that brought together all employees, from groundskeepers to adjuncts, executives to advisors. It meant a great deal of extra work for many personnel and was a commitment not many campuses would be willing to take on right before the beginning of a new academic year, but it was crucial that each team member was there to add their unique perspective. The Summit was a resounding success and at the end of the day, many approached me to say how energized they were for the new semester.

Helping those who help themselves

That being said, no matter how much faculty or staff are capable of helping, student success requires the student be willing to help themselves as well. It’s a responsibility I hope each of our students take seriously. To aid in that I’ve identified my top five tips to ensure a successful college experience:

1. Show up.

We can’t force students to come to class or take advantage of our campus resources; you have to want to be here. The truism that life is mostly just showing up applies to your education. It’s simple. Go to class, see an advisor, visit the Learning Commons, whatever you do just be here and present.

2. Ask questions.

As talented as our employees may be, not a one of them are mind readers. That means if you have a question, you have to ask for an answer. We have experts on campus in virtually every aspect of higher education. Whether it’s about the application for admission or about your coursework (or anything in between), someone here can help.

3. Get to know your instructors.

Teachers are people, too. Getting to know them is a great way to gather what is expected of you, engage in the class, and learn how to excel. Every instructor has office hours where you can go if you are needing help understanding what was taught in class or you just need some general. They are excellent resources for navigating your College experience. This is also a great way to find a mentor.

4. Get engaged.

For students who tell me they feel disconnected, I always urge them to join a student organization. Though we are a commuter campus, we are fortunate to have many great clubs for all interests and aspirations. Not only are these a great way to meet friends, research suggests students who engage in student orgs perform better academically and are more likely to graduate.

5. Did I mention showing up?

Not just being here in person, but being an aware and active participant in your education. Seriously, it’s important.

With that I just want to say, welcome to TCC! No matter if you are returning or new, it is my privilege to congratulate each of our students on making the decision to attend Tallahassee Community College. Best of luck this semester and all the semesters ahead.