By Soleman Hakeem/reporter
College success includes more than good grades, an academic advisor told TR students recently.
Sharon Moore presented Tips for Transferring Credits, a lunch workshop, March 5.
“Prospective employers are not just looking for academically talented students, they often want students who are well-rounded and have active campus lives,” she said.
Moore said major universities have culture shock value for new students because of college size and location, distance from home, area of school and availability of financial aid.
A university’s affiliation with a religion or group could also affect the culture of the campus and its student body, she said.
Students should start the transfer process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to find out their financial aid status, Moore said.
It is also important for students to visit the campus to get the feel for campus life and academics, she said.
Moore shared her own experiences from her life at the University of Texas at Austin. One day, someone jumped at her from the corner of the street. Since she grew up an introvert from Tyler, Texas, she said it was hard to comprehend such behavior.
Students should also visit with advisers and their professors, who can help them reach their goals, Moore said.
“It is important to network with your college professors,” she said.
She also encouraged students to get focused on their futures.
“Make sure you declare your major early,” she said.
Every student must keep in mind four points, Moore said: friendship, networking, leadership roles and housing options.
“It’s not just about your grades and how smart you are,” she said about the working world. ”It’s about who you know.”
For her last piece of advice, Moore said, “Graduating is important.”
Business management student Anita Weddle was happy to know about the challenges she might face.
“I found it very informative,” Weddle said. “She gave us useful information regarding taking the next step toward achieving our goal.”
Student Candace Cantwell also left with what she considered valuable information.
“I learned that getting into extracurricular activities, networking and getting involved will empower me,” she said.
For more information, students can visit Moore in TRTR 1020 or by calling 817-515-1198 or e-mailing sharon.moore@tccd.edu.
