First Year Students

First Year Student Resources

Did you know that national research on student success in college indicates that the first year of college is the most important? Starting with the appropriate courses, learning to study at a college level, and becoming an active member of the college community are characteristics of first year students who typically succeed. Frederick Community College promotes first year student success through a comprehensive, integrated approach to student learning.

Academics
1.	What will help me be successful?
	Successful students: Are on time and be prepared Go to class and ask questions Are involved in and out of class Attend class Do assignments Keep and follow course outlines Get to know teachers Study with friends Join student groups Have fun
2.	Getting the most information from your textbook
	Use your syllabus or course outline as a guide to your textbook. Look over your textbook with your course outline in hand. Read the chapter title, introduction, summary and beginning and ending chapter questions before reading the chapter. Slow down and think at each heading. What did the author(s) just say to me? How does this relate to my class discussions? Link pictures, special print (bold, italics, and color) to chapter titles and headings. Read the book!
3.	How do I get tutoring for a course?
	If you're taking FCC courses, you can take advantage of free tutoring for the class you are enrolled in through our tutorial services program. Stop by the tutoring office in L223 (inside the Library) for more information. Click here to visit the Tutorial Services web pages.
4.	How can I get help with writing a paper?
	Writing doesn't come easily or naturally for many people. The Writing Center in Room 106 of the Library Building offers a variety of resources to help improve your writing skills. Click here to visit the Writing Center web pages for information on services and hours.
5.	How can I get help with Math homework?
	The Math Learning Center in B112 is staffed with friendly faculty, tutors and lab aides to help you succeed in your math course. Drop in any time for a quiet place to study, ask questions, get help with your calculator, use resources such as solutions guides and videos, and get information about math tutoring. Click here to visit the Math department web site.
6.	How to talk to your instructor?
	During high school, you had the chance to develop relationships with your teachers. Chances are, you enjoyed the classes more if you had a positive relationship with the teacher. You probably even made better grades in the classes that you knew the teachers the best. The same thing is going to be true at college -- get to know your instructors. A first impression is a lasting impression. Most professors remember everything, and they will remember everything about you. Here are a few pointers for getting your relationship with your instructors off to a good start: Go to class. It is hard to form a relationship if you aren't there. If you are sick or have to miss a class, let your professor know in advance. Be on time. Coming to class after the instructor begins can be disruptive and even rude. Again, if you know that you are going to have to be late, let your professor know in advance. Sit up front where you can be seen. You have to make contact with your instructors to form a relationship with them. It is hard to make any kind of a connection hiding on the back row. Participate in class discussions. When it is your turn, speak up and be heard. Let your professor know that you are paying attention and are interested in the class material. Ask for help. If you need help, visit your professors during their office hours. It is usually much easier to develop a relationship with someone one-on-one. After you make a good first impression, keep up the good work. Continue to work on forming the relationship. Just like any kind of a relationship, your relationship with your professor will need nurturing during the rest of the semester. Always remember that professors are people too. They are human just like you are. Don't be intimidated by them remember that professors have different teaching styles. If you are feeling overwhelmed in class, take time outside of class to get to know a little more about them. They will be much more approachable one-on-one. Source:http://www.prenhall.com/success/Fitness/relations.html
7.	Relationships with Your Professors
	Visit a professor during their office hours if you need help understanding class material. This is why faculty keep scheduled office hours. If you cannot meet with a professor during their scheduled office hours, schedule an appointment for another time that is convenient for both of you. If you are having trouble with a class, ask for help early. Developing a relationship with the instructor early in the semester will make it easier to ask for help as the semester progresses. Find someone on campus (an Instructor, Counselor or Administrator) who knows you are there and cares about your survival as a first-year student. Get to know this person, and make sure they get to know you. Get to know the advisor to any organization that you are a member. They can be very helpful in offering you academic or other assistance. Source: http://www.abacon.com/firstyearfocus/scene/relategoal.html
8.	Study Guides & Strategies
	The Learning Consultant holds study skills workshops throughout the fall and spring semesters. Some workshops are related to specific majors, such as nursing; other workshops deal with general concerns such as test anxiety or active studying. In addition to the workshops, the Learning Consultant will meet with individual students or groups for specific study skill needs. All study skills assistance and workshops are free for FCC students. Contact Peg Mauzy, Learning Consultant at 301.846.2616 for more information. Click here to visit the Study Skills webpage
9.	Are there any tools available to help me manage my time?
	Click here to use an interactive tool that maps out work, classes, study time, and other activities so that you can see if a proposed schedule is workable.
10.	What is the Honors College ?
	The Honors College at FCC is designed for students who want more out of their college learning experience. Small classes (10-15 students), close interaction with superb faculty, and academic activities (e.g., research projects, field trips, and guest speakers) inside and outside the classroom create such opportunities. Click here to visit the Honors College web page for more information
11.	What Study Abroad Opportunities are available to me?
	FCC is part of a state-wide International Education Consortium with 15 other Maryland Community Colleges. This Consortium offers various short- and semester-long study abroad opportunities for community college students. FCC sponsors two different experiences: travel to Russia for a few weeks in the summer (earn 6 credits) and study, live, and work in London for the spring semester (earn 12 credits). Contact either Marshall Botkin for the Russian trip or Peg Mauzy for the London experience and details on the state-wide Consortium opportunities. Click here to visit the Study Abroad web page.

Student Services
1.	How do I check my course schedule?
	FCC's web-based Student System allows you to complete most transactions on-line and to see real-time information about your academic and financial records, class schedule, grades and current availability of classes. Click here to log in or browse the tutorial for using the system.
2.	How do find my grades?
	FCC's web-based Student System allows you to complete most transactions on-line and to see real-time information about your academic and financial records, class schedule, grades and current availability of classes. Click here to log in or browse the tutorial for using the system.
3.	How can I send transcripts to another college?
	Requests for transcripts are processed in the Welcome and Registration Center located on the first floor of the Administration Building. All requests must be in writing and must include the student's signature. Requests may be made in person, mailed or faxed to 301-624-2799. Click here for more information and to download the Transcript Request form.
4.	Where can I find resources for Transfer Planning?
	Deciding to transfer to a four-year college or university can be an exciting yet confusing experience. In the Transfer Center, you’ll find a variety of resources and tools to help you through the process. The following information will assist you in assuring your transfer will be a smooth one. Cick here to visit the Transfer Center web site.
5.	What services are available for students with disabilities?
	The Services for Students with Disabilities Office (or SSD) is your first stop if you would like information or assistance on how disabilities related challenges relate to FCC's learning environment. Click here to visit the Student with Disabilities web pages for more detailed information or contact Yasmin Shikari, B.Com. at 301.846.2408
6.	Is childcare available?
	The Children’s Center is staffed with professional early childhood educators who partner with families to provide optimal care for each child. Child care grants, to offset tuition costs, are available to qualified students through the office of adult services (301.846.2483). Click here to visit the Childrens Center web pages for more detailed information.
7.	Is software available for purchase at a student rate?
	The bookstore can order academically priced software for students, faculty and staff. Sometimes academic pricing results in a terrific savings, sometimes very little savings. Contact Donna Mortimer at 301.846.2464 or stop by the Bookstore located in the Fine Arts building, next to the Cougar Grille.
8.	What jobs are available on campus and how can I find out about them?
	The best place to begin the process of finding a job on campus is to visit the Financial Aid office. The majority of student jobs are tied to Financial Aid. If you are a Financial Aid recepient please contact the Financial Aid office Administration Building Room A 105 Phone: (301) 846-2620 Fax: (301) 624-2886 OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. For jobs not tied into Financial Aid, there are limited openings in the Computer Lab, the Cafeteria and elsewhere on campus. Please contact the Human Resources office or visit the Jobs web page on Frederick.edu Administration Building A202 fccjobs@frederick.edu or 301.846.2672
9.	Where can I buy textbooks and other supplies?
	The Bookstore is in the Arts and Student Center, just down the hall from the Cougar Cafe In addition to textbooks for credit and noncredit classes, you’ll find school and art supplies, backpacks, calculators, greeting cards, computer software with special academic pricing, snacks, nursing equipment, and FCC imprinted clothing and gifts.You may also purchase textbooks online from the FCC Bookstore. Click here to visit the FCC Bookstore web site.
10.	How do I get help with an online course?
	Please contact your instructor for help with course content. You may also visit the FCC/ Blackboard Support site by clicking here. For technical problems contact Jurgen Hilke or stop by the Distance Learning office in the Library building L200.
11.	How do I find out about Internship opportunities?
	Internships help students integrate what is taught in school with what is required in the workplace. Students take internships to develop knowledge and skills valued by employers. At FCC, students in certain college programs are eligible to receive credit for internships. For more detailed information click here to visit the Internship pages.
12.	How can I get money to help me pay for my education?
	The best place to start is the Finanical Aid office. The FA staff can provide information on payment plans, grants, loans and other resources. Click here to visit the Financial Aid website

Other Information
1.	How do I get a student e-mail account?
	Each student enrolled at Frederick Community College has an official student email account. This email account also includes 150 megabytes of online data storage to store class assignments and other course related material. Student can access the myFCC site both on and off campus through the address https://myfcc.frederick.edu.
2.	What student clubs & organizations are available?
	Broaden your college experience by getting involved in student clubs such as: Amnesty International Aviation Maintenance Club Black Student Union Fencing Club Honors Students Association International Students Club InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Math Club Outdoor Adventure Club Paralegal Student Association Phi Theta Kappa Post-Secondary Agricultural Student Organization Society of Film Appreciation (SOFA) Student Government Association Student Program Board Student Newspaper-Cougar Claw Swing Kids Club Who Who in American Community Colleges The GREAT Group-Gay/Lesbian Resource for Education and Trust For more information contact Jeanni Winston-Muir Director, Student Life & Alumni Services Arts and Student Center, Room 120. Phone: 301.846.2489 or visit the Student Life web pages
3.	What volunteer opportunities are available?
	Service Learning and Civic Engagement Placement At Frederick Community College. The Student Life Office includes Service Learning and Civic Engagement Placement. This is great for students who are interested in volunteering in the community or would like to gain experience in their field of study by helping others. It’s also the place to learn about the needs of the community and volunteer opportunities should a particular course require a service project or service hours. In addition, campus clubs and organizations that are required to do service projects each semester can visit the Student Life Office to match their project to the mission of their group. Stop by the Student Life Office in F102 (in the Arts & Student Center) or call 301-846-2540.
4.	Is there a student handbook available?
	Click here to view the student handbook online. To obtain a hard copy of the handbook please contact the office of the VP for Learning/Provost, Building C-201
5.	Does FCC have a student newspaper?
	Yes, the Commuter. To view the latest version online click here. The newspaper is open to any student who wishes to contribute. It shares a special co-curricular relationship with the Jouralism I (EN212) and Journalism Practicum (EN218) classes. However, it is a student-run publication. Interested students can initially contact Professor Ken Kerr. Anyone can, at anytime, submit to The Commuter
6.	Is personal counseling available?
	As you know, college can be very stressful. Perhaps you, like many of our students, have to juggle family, work and school responsibilities. This can often seem overwhelming. We have friendly, caring counselors who you can talk to. Counselors have a variety of resources on campus and in the community to help you. The counseling staff also offers workshops on topics related to personal growth and adjustment throughout the year. Please call Counseling at 301.846.2471 for more information.
7.	How do I participate in SGA ?
	The Student Government Association meets twice per month. For the 2005-2006 academic year, we will be meeting the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month at 3:30pm in the cafeteria (room F108). To get involved, simply attend the meetings or contact the our SGA officers or advisor for more information. The SGA office is located in room F103 and can be reached by email or by phone at 301.846.2650. Our advisor, Jeanni Winston-Muir, can be reached by email or by phone at 301.624.2793.
8.	Is there an ATM on campus?
	If you need cash you can find an ATM machine operated by F&M Bank behind the Student Fine Arts Building (F). The ATM machine is in a free-standing, glass-enclosed building next to the parking lot. Also, if you exit the library on the first floor and walk toward the Student Fine Arts Building you'll see the ATM building straight ahead.
9.	Where should I park?
	There are numerous student parking lots on campus. Please take a look at the Campus Map for an overview of student parking lot locations.
10.	Is FCC a public Transit stop?
	Yes, there is Frederick Transit Services bus stop in the Front of the Library Building.
11.	Where can I get something to eat?
	Dining Services operates five different venues on campus including the Cougar Grille, the Sara Lee Sandwich Shoppe, Smooth Joe's, Snacks on the Run and A Taste for All Seasons Catering. The management office is located in the Arts & Student Center, room F108B. For more information and to view a schedule of special events, click here.
12.	What if I locked my keys in my car?
	The Security office is not authorized to assist with this situation. For safety and protection, security staffs are on campus during open hours. Located in Administration Hall, A-101, the security office may be contacted at 301-846-2453 or by dialing "0" on any campus phone.
13.	What if my car battery is dead?
	The Security office will help you jump start your car. For safety and protection, security staffs are on campus during open hours. Located in Administration Hall, A-101, the security office may be contacted at 301-846-2453 or by dialing "0" on any campus phone.
14.	Does FCC close for bad weather?
	FCC does NOT follow the same schedule as the public school system. You must check FCC sources for accurate information regarding schedules. The College will provide inclement weather announcements concerning cancellations, closings, and delays by 5:30 a.m. Please refer to the following sources: PRIMARY SOURCES: FCC switchboard, 301-846-2400 FCC Web site www.frederick.edu Other Web sites: www.schoolsout.com OTHER SOURCES: Radio and TV Stations Radi WFMD (AM 930) WFRE (FM 99.9) WARX (FM F106.9) WAFY (FM 103.1) TV: NEWS4 ( CH. 4) Newschannel 8 WJZ-TV ( CH. 13) WTTG FOX-5 ( CH. 5) WUSA-TV ( CH. 9) WHAG-TV ( CH. 25) ABC ( CH. 7) WBAL ( CH. 11) NOTE: Radio and TV stations might not use the exact words we provide them, so please be aware that announcements could differ from station to station. Due to the possibility of inaccurate announcements we would advise you to check more than one source.
15.	Where is the Lost and Found Office?
	The Lost and Found is located in the Security Office located in Administration Hall, A-101, the security office may be contacted at 301-846-2453 or by dialing "0" on any campus phone.
16.	Where are the student lounges?
	There are three student lounges on campus. One is in the Arts & Student Center (room F107). It houses a billiards table, ping-pong table, fossball table, as well as a big screen television with VHS and DVD players. Students who want to use the equipment must present a photo ID to the lounge assistant on duty or one of the Student Government Association officers in F103. Lounge assistants' hours are posted on the door each semester. Another lounge is located on the first floor of the Library Building, behind the vending area. It is a smaller lounge with two tables and a couch. The third lounge is located in the A/B knuckle. It is a larger lounge, with plenty of seating, study carrels, and vending machines.

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