Tyler Junior College kicked off its first New Student Orientation on Thursday, with 300 wide-eyed, new Apaches getting their first look at life at TJC before fall classes begin on Monday, Aug. 21.
In addition to learning the nuts and bolts of TJC’s admissions and registration functions and registering for fall classes, students had the opportunity to meet student leaders and academic advisors, get a closer look at the college’s 120-plus degree and certificate programs, make connections with fellow students, and learn about student life and organizations.
TJC alumnus Ron Zander brought his daughter, Heather, who will major in nursing at TJC in the fall.
“I wanted her to have a full college experience but not start at a huge university,” Zander said. “From my own experience, I knew TJC would give her that.”
Zander graduated from TJC in 1970, and then transferred to the University of Houston and finally Texas A&M, where he earned a degree in landscape architecture. He lives in Dallas.
Heather Zander said she likes what she’s seen so far.
“I’m from a smaller high school in Dallas, and I really wanted something that wasn’t too big, which is what I’m used to,” she said. “Once we came to visit TJC, I knew this was the right place.”
Registration for TJC New Student Orientation continues through July.
Sessions will be held on the TJC main campus on the following dates:
• June 19 and 20
• June 22 and 23
• July 10 and 11
• July 13 and 14
• July 17 and 18
• July 20 and 21
Cost is $50 per person, and the fee covers materials plus meals in the TJC dining hall. Students can pay an additional $20 for lodging in TJC residence halls.
Before registering for orientation, students need to have already applied for admission to TJC and met testing requirements.
Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. To register, go to www.tjc.edu/orientation.
Parents and family members are also encouraged to attend; and special sessions have been designed specifically with parents in mind, giving them an opportunity to meet and ask questions of faculty and staff. Family members can attend at an additional cost of $40 per person.
Students who require accommodations during orientation can contact Tina Dillman, in advance, to arrange interpreting services at 903-510-2841 or Margaret Rapp for all other disability accommodation needs at 903-510-2878.
For special needs with lodging, prior arrangements can be made by calling TJC Residential Life & Housing at 903-510-2345.
For more information, go to www.tjc.edu/orientation or call 903-510-2150.
Fall classes begin Monday, Aug. 21.