Make your first year a success at Columbia College
Have a successful first year by joining a student organization, attending sporting events, meeting with your academic advisor and more.
Use this time to discover your potential and prepare for your future. Columbia College will be your compass. We're here to guide you every step of the way.
Events welcome you to the Columbia College campus
We have several events and activities designed to help you be successful your first year and beyond.
Welcome Week
Prior to the start of the fall semester, you'll participate in a week of fun activities designed to get you familiar with our campus. You'll have a blast interacting with new friends and exploring the Columbia community.
Hey Day
Mark your calendar for Hey Day, our involvement fair, and explore a variety of ways to get connected with the main campus through opportunities both on and off campus.
Homecoming
Attend Homecoming, where you'll celebrate the college with current and former students and their families. Enjoy activities such as Movie Night, Color Run, CAB Night of Fun and Fall Formal.
Scooter's Holiday Hangout
Join your friends and other students in the Atkins-Holman Student Commons to celebrate the upcoming holiday season and enjoy themed crafts and cocoa.
Foundations Seminar overview
The Foundations Seminar is a theme-based introduction to the college experience, focused on helping students transition into college both academically and personally. Although there is a strong emphasis on the development of skills such as time management, stress management, digital literacy, and so on, each section of the seminar will have a different theme depending upon the interests of the instructor.
This 16-week seminar is a 3 credit hour academic course that meets the general education curriculum and degree requirements. Additionally, new students become familiar with the wide variety of resources available to help them meet their collegiate goals.
Tips for parents
Parents can support their students during the first year of college by providing encouragement while still allowing them to become independent. Here are a few things to remember.
- If your student calls with a frustration about college, encourage him or her to meet with staff or faculty who can help resolve the issue. For instance, if your student is having trouble academically, refer him or her to the instructor or tutoring center. If your student is feeling homesick, let him or her know free counseling services are available.
- Call and text your student, but also allow time for your student to become active and connected on campus. Don't take it personally if your student does not respond right away, as they are adjusting to life away from home.
- Columbia College has numerous resources to help your student become successful academically and socially. Your student will be surrounded by supportive staff, faculty and classmates. We pride ourselves on making sure everyone feels safe, welcomed and included.
Online and nationwide students
Resources help you adjust to college
Directors at your local venue or our online program staff will help you navigate your first year of college.
Be sure to register for classes each session, if possible, to stay on track toward your degree.
Don't hesitate to talk to your instructors if you need help in class or with specific assignments. Online tutoring is also available.
If you're taking one or more classes online, view a course demo to get a better understanding how online learning works. Students studying completely online can learn more about what to expect through a New Student Orientation.
You can also get career advice and assistance as you explore your career options.