First Year Experience

What We Do

The First Year Experience Team understands that a student’s first year of college is a time to build, develop, and discover. We provide resources and programming to guide you on your path to success. Our year begins with Tiger Nation Family Day (TNFD), an official induction to the St. Philip’s College Tiger Family, and concludes with an End of First Year Banquet, a time for students to celebrate the completion of their first year in college and all of their accomplishments. Our next TNFD is January 11, 2025. See below for more info.

First-time in college students interested in receiving one-on-one guidance and support throughout their first year can apply to be a part of the First Year Experience Program (FYE). The FYE membership benefits include:

One-on-one guidance throughout your first-year at SPC
FREE Extended New Student Orientation
FREE academic supplies
Peer mentoring
Exclusive academic workshops and events
Access to exclusive grants
End of Year Banquet
A chance to win prizes like iPads and laptops

Step 1: Complete this INTEREST FORM

Step 2: Complete the application that will be sent to your student email upon submission of the interest form

Step 3: Check your e-mail for your acceptance letter and next steps

Please do not hestitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like more information. 

Katherine Valdez, Coordinator of Student Success - FYE

kvaldez@bc178.cc | (210)486-2113

Semester Options Before You Register Fall Fall (Regular) = 16 weeks AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC Start II = 14 weeks SEPT OCT NOV DEC Fall Flex I = 8 weeks AUG SEPT OCT Fall Flex II = 8 weeks OCT NOV DEC Wintermester = 3 weeks DEC Spring Spring (Regular) = 16 weeks JAN FEB MAR APR MAY Spring Start II = 14 weeks FEB MAR APR MAY Spring Flex I = 8 weeks JAN FEB MAR Spring Flex II = 8 weeks MAR APR MAY Maymester = 3 weeks MAY Summer Summer (Regular) = 10 weeks JUNE JULY AUG  Summer I = 5 weeks JUNE JULY Summer I = 8 weeks MAY JUNE JULY Summer II = 5 weeks JULY AUG Summer II = 8 weeks JUNE JULY AUG Summer III = 8 weeks JUNE JULY AUG Maymester = 3 weeks MAY Tiger Nation Family Day It is a tradition at SPC for new students and their families to visit the campus before the first day of class for Tiger Nation Family Day. It is designed to introduce students to college leadership, highlight college programs, and services, motivate students to make a successful transition to college life, and orient students to the campus.  Spring 2025 Tiger Nation Family Day will be held on January 11, 2025, from 1:00PM to 6:00PM. Learn More

Student Testimonials Hours of Operation and Calendar of Upcoming Events Hours of Operations and Calendar of Upcoming Events Hours of Operation  Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM              Drop by the CASE building on the MLK Campus or the Library at the SWC if you have any questions or would like some tips to help you during your first year at SPC. Please send me an email if you would like to schedule a meeting.  You can contact me at kvaldez@bc178.cc Download the Alamo Colleges District App Today! The Alamo Colleges District app keeps students informed, connected, and up-to-date with easy access to student account information and resources at all five colleges. (Click here or the icon above to download the app for Apple iOS devices, i.e. iPhones, iPads) (Click here or the icon above to download the app for Android devices, i.e. Samsung Galaxy) Learn more Scholarship Opportunities: Alamo Colleges Foundation Scholarship Application  CAMPUS MAP Get a Campus Job There are many benefits to having a campus job, including a schedule that accommodates your classes and building relationships with faculty, staff, and other students. Please complete the application at the following link: Student Employment Opportunities

Video Resources

Peer Mentors

Want to talk to someone who is currently in your shoes? Please feel free to reach out to one of our Peer Mentors for support. Our Peer Mentors are students just like you who are here to support you in your journey and help answer questions. As they are currently attending SPC, they can give you some helpful insights and tips for success.

Helpful Information Tips for Success from Students Tips for Success from Faculty All Access Pass Student Handbook Tiger Terms