Success has many end points and Southwestern College offers many starting points. A legion of professors, tutors, counselors and other professionals stand ready to accompany students toward their success – all just steps away.
Transfer Center
Students can transfer to a UC, CSU or private university with the help of the Transfer Center staff. Students are encouraged to attend an application workshop for help applying to the university of their choice. Application mistakes and appeals handled by Transfer Center and staff decrease frustration and empower students to think boldly. Transfer Center representatives can give powerful advice, provide introductions and schedule university tours.
Student Employment Services
Student Employment Services offers more than 400 campus and off-campus employment opportunities. Students can attend job fairs in the fall or spring semesters and connect with employers. Assistance with internships is also available.
EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services)
“We create a community with our students,” said Omar Orihuela, director of EOPS
A product of the Civil Rights Movement, EOPS is all about providing opportunities for underserved students. EOPS has a proven record of success for the socioeconomically disadvantaged full-time students and those with disabilities. Its most popular service is a book stipend of up to $350, along with a book lending option. Program counselors help develop invaluable Student Education Plans (SEP). Students may borrow up to $150 with no interest or service fees for short term emergencies. EOPS has its own academic counselors. The program hosts more than 40 workshops on money, stress management, university applications, and other life skill workshops.
FYE (First Year Experience)
FYE provides grounding and guidance for first-time students. It supports students with counseling, peer-to-peer mentorship and Personal Development courses. Counselors assist with Student Education Plans (SEP). Students receive priority enrollment during their first four semesters. FYE recipients are required to volunteer to increase their chances of connecting to professionals in their fields. They can expect special events and fun activities throughout the year.
Disability Support Services (DSS)
“Accommodations are meant to level the playing field, create equal opportunity and reduce barriers,” said Dr. Malia Flood, director of Disability Support Services.
DSS strives to assist students with a disability to receive the same educational opportunities as their peers. Along with priority enrollment, DSS offers personalized counseling and accommodations for testing, including extended time. Students may receive the help of a note taker in class, tape recorders and smart pens for lectures, audio textbooks and ASL interpreter so DSS students receive an individualized experience based on their needs. All information is complete confidential. DSS advisors advocate for students and support their goals.
Veterans Resource Center (V.R.C.)
The VRC is a place of rehabilitation and community for veterans and their families who attend Southwestern College.
“We provide a warm, safe and welcoming environment for all,” said J.D. White, Veterans Resource Center Coordinator.
More than a study center, VRC advisors strive to help rehabilitate military veterans. Students learn to reconnect and integrate into the civilian world. Along with services like book exchange and peer-to-peer tutoring, student veterans can receive assistance with utilities, housing and transportation. VRC advisors may assist with clothes and toiletries. Job counseling and support provided for students, along with scholarship referrals. Students are prepped for long-term stability and success.
Academic Success Center
Popular places to receive tutoring are the campus library and Academic Success Center. ASC hosts writing workshops and talented tutors are happy to help with scholarships and grant applications.
College Library
SC’s $17 million library is staffed with research experts eager to help students find out nearly anything. Librarians know how to track down hard-to-find data and references, and can also access current research that requires subscriptions. SC’s librarians are cheerful, generous and standing by at the moment’s notice.
Graphic by Gamaliel Carreno
