New Student Orientation:Guide to Success

New to College?

It’s important that you StartSmart! PVCC’s student success program, iStartSmart, includes Placement Testing, Orientation (online and on-campus), and a Student Success class. It is required if any of the following apply:

You are enrolling as a full time student (12 or more credit hours)
You are enrolling in 6 or more credits, are seeking a degree, and your placement test scores indicate any course under 100 level. (e.g. ENG 071, RDG 091, MAT 092, etc.)

Here's How You'll StartSmart!

Step 1: Complete the Student Information Form

This form is available online at my_maricopa.edu (click on First Time Users Start Here). You will also discover your Maricopa ID, called a MEID, and set your password so you will be ready for Fall registration. This form is also available at Admissions and Records, Kranitz Student Center (KSC) 111, the Information Center (KSC lower level), or can be printed from the Admissions (pdf) Web site.

Step 2: Take Placement Tests in English, Math and Reading

Placement tests in English, Math and Reading are required before attending your on-campus Orientation session. Placement tests are administered on a walk-in basis in KSC 226. Call (602) 787-7050 to verify current hours.

IMPORTANT: Complete all three placement tests and bring the scores to your on-campus Orientation session. Your scores are required for selecting appropriate classes.

Step 3: Complete iStartSmart online Orientation

This brief online Orientation will prepare you for your on-campus Orientation and will acquaint you with important PVCC information, services, and procedures. A link to the online Orientation is provided at the bottom of this page.

Step 4: Enroll in on-campus Orientation

You’ll be introduced to your classmates, tour the campus, learn important college customs, and meet with your Academic Advisor who will help you choose your first-semester courses and enroll.

Step 5: Enroll in a College Success Course

During your on-campus Orientation session your Academic Advisor will help you select the College Success course that best meets your needs and schedule. In the course you’ll learn strategies for achieving your goals in college and in life including:

Identifying your learning style
College note taking
Time management
Exam preparation

This course is REQUIRED for all new to college students who are either (1) full-time or (2) degree-seeking students taking 6 or more credit hours who test into a English, Math, or Reading course under 100 level.

Available after 3/19/08