By Natalie Phetsamone/reporter

An academic advisor helped NW students with What’s My Plan? Thinking Critically about Your Future on Sept. 11.

“Ask questions, come and visit with us, talk to the transfer center. Don’t take seven years to graduate from a two-year program,” said Pete Portillo, NW academic advisor and member of the Student Success Committee.

For students planning to transfer to a university, Portillo recommends visiting the transfer center.

“Talk with them. See what classes you should take and ask what electives you should take [to complement] your major,” he said. “Don’t just listen to us at TCC. It is best to hear it straight from the horse’s mouth.”

Schools do not want students to just “hang around.” Schools want students to graduate quickly and begin their careers.

Portillo recommends balancing courseloads.

“Pair up some lighter classes with some that are more difficult,” he said.

And if students can do so, Portillo said it’s best not to go to school full time while working full time.

“It can be done, but you have to be dedicated and really have no social life,” he said.

The social aspect of college is something students do not want to miss out on. Portillo said it gives students an opportunity to discover more about themselves.

Viettayvonne Galaviz, a returning student, said she attended the workshop to help her choose a career plan.

“I learned there are lots of resources to help pinpoint what you want to get a degree in,” she said. “And I learned more about the [different] associate degrees and certificates [offered].”