(PHOENIX, Ariz., Nov. 25, 2003) – If you want to get ahead and get connected to Phoenix College before the first day of class, mark your calendars now for the Spring Orientation: Previews to Success event set for Saturday, Jan. 17.

This welcoming event, which provides new students with all the tools they need to get started, begins promptly at 8 a.m. in the John Paul Theatre. It will conclude at noon.

A useful program that is jam-packed with helpful workshops and vital information, Previews to Success will offer attendees seminars on Student Success Strategies, What Your Teachers Expect from You, Student Services and Resources, How to Successfully Apply for Scholarships and How to Pick a Major and Make Career Decisions.

In addition, Previews to Success will also offer a bilingual session in English and Spanish, which will help new students learn about the student services and resources available, how they can apply for scholarships and useful strategies for success.

Those students who participated in last semester’s orientation highly recommend it. New students, Vindel Phillips, Ofelia Apaez and Sandy Perez believe that orientation is an open doorway to a successful semester.

Vindel Phillips
Attended: Hopi Junior/Senior High School
Area of Study: Advanced Emergency Medical Technology

"If you’re nervous about attending college, this is a great way to get familiar with the campus and where your classes will be," said Phillips. "I can honestly say that I really got a lot out of orientation. I found it to be very informative and fun. Also, if you are interested in applying for scholarships, attend the scholarship workshop. This workshop is designed to teach you all about writing a letter of intent and how to fill out scholarship applications – I highly recommend it."

Ofelia Apaez
Attended: Metro Tech High School
Area of Study: General Business

"By attending orientation you get a small taste of what’s to come," said Apaez. "I was amazed at the number of new students that actually attend orientation and the diversity of the student body. Ironically, I saw students from my own high school and instantly felt at home."

Sandy Perez
Attended: Metro Tech High School
Area of Study: Legal Studies

"I thought I would be shy about asking questions," Perez said. "However, our tour guides and presenters really made it easy for us to feel comfortable. The atmosphere is fun and relaxing, which allows you to meet people from other area high schools."

If you are still not convinced that Previews to Success is a must for your schedule on Jan. 17, it is important to note that other attendees found the program to be just as valuable.

Of the number of workshops and information sessions offered, here is a small glimpse of what students found to be some of the most valuable tools to ensure success.

--Strategies for Success
--Test-Taking Strategies
--Teacher Expectations
--Learning Communities
--Campus Resources and Assistance
--Counseling Services
--Career Services
--Financial Aid
--Learning Center and Special Services
--Library
--Open Computer
--Services and Students with Disabilities
--Picking a Major and Career Decisions

If you’re attending Phoenix College this Spring, don’t miss out on this great opportunity to get ahead. The free event will also include campus tours, raffle prizes and refreshments.

The orientation is free and students can register for the program by enrolling in NC 500, Section 9000. For more information about Previews to Success, please call (602) 285-7415. Every effort will be made to provide interpreters for students needing assistance in other languages, or for those students who need special accommodations. Please call the Office of Recruitment and Retention by January 5, 2004 to request accommodations.

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