By Bailey Garrison/reporter
NE Campus academic advisers Carey Miller, Kim Eason and Masika Smith talked about the importance of GPA, tips for different learning styles and campus resources in the Back on Track workshop Oct. 24.
Eason tackled GPA and the barriers students face when it comes to school performance.
“When students put other needs before school, they tend to see a drop in grades,” Eason said.
If a GPA drops below 2.0, the student is placed on academic probation, which can often be appealed, Eason said. Students can bring their GPA up by retaking failed courses to replace previous grades.
If students fail to raise their GPA, they risk an academic suspension, where they are forced to sit out a full fall, spring or summer semester.
This time is spent building an academic recovery package so students can roadmap their degree plan and determine the steps needed to get back on track.
Miller presented on transferring coursework and creative learning styles. She said having a high GPA helps when transferring to a university.
“GPA can earn you scholarships and more money to assist with tuition,” Miller said.
The transfer centers on all campuses have representatives from Texas universities to assist with application deadlines, financial aid and other questions.
“Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth just signed a contract with TCC to help pay for students’ tuition,” Miller said. “Students must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA, 42 transferrable credits, which is the core curriculum at TCC, be eligible for the Pell Grant and enroll full time at Texas Wesleyan in order to receive free tuition,” Miller said.
Smith began her lecture with a story of her recent trip to Africa.
“While planning, I thought all I needed was my passport and plane ticket,” she said.
She learned that more goes into planning a trip to another country than just the basics.
This also applies to schoolwork, Smith said.
“When you have a plan and know what resources you have available to you, the more likely you are to use them,” she said.
