Resources for Students & Families

College is a major transition for students and their families, but you’re not alone. Jefferson College offers a supportive community and a wide range of resources to help you succeed from day one. Explore the tips and services available—and don’t hesitate to ask for help. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Welcome to a New Kind of Schedule

• You’re in control.
  • In college, you shape your own schedule—whether that’s Monday/Wednesday/Friday classes, Tuesday/Thursday, once a week, or fully online. The flexibility is yours, but so is the responsibility. No one will wake you up, track your attendance, or remind you when assignments are due.
• Deadlines still matter.
  • While you set your routine, your courses come with firm expectations—class times, due dates, participation. If you don’t meet them, there can be serious consequences: failing grades, loss of financial aid, or even being dropped from a course. We don’t want that for you, and we know you don’t either.
• Advising is essential.
  • Your schedule will change each semester. Make it a priority to meet with an academic advisor regularly to ensure you're on track and taking the right courses for your goals.
• Reading is a big deal.
  • Expect to read—a lot. Staying on top of reading assignments is key to staying engaged and performing well.
• Be open to new people.
  • College is a fresh start. You’ll meet people from all walks of life. Forget high school cliques—take the time to connect with others and broaden your perspective.
• College is its own world.
  • It’s not like high school, and it’s not like a job. It’s a unique environment full of opportunity and growth—if you’re ready to embrace it.

How to Be Successful

• Handle the details.
  • Make sure your financial aid is squared away, and check for any holds on your account—like parking tickets, overdue library books, or unpaid tuition—before registering for classes. Don’t forget to grab your books before the semester begins.
• Be present and engaged.
  • Showing up is just the beginning. Your instructors want to hear from you, so be ready to participate. Read ahead, think critically, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
• Stay on top of your assignments.
  • Motivation comes and goes, but commitment keeps you going. Do the work, meet the deadlines, and give it your best effort every time.
• Find your focus.
  • Limit distractions and carve out a dedicated space to study (the Library is a great option!). A consistent routine helps you stay productive and grounded.
• Enjoy the experience.
  • College is about more than just a degree. Get involved, pursue your interests, and take time to celebrate your progress. Learning is the real reward.
• Success is closer than you think.
  • Stay committed, stay curious, and remember: you’ve got this.

Academic

• Academic Success Center
  • Your best resource for tutoring, computer lab access, and achieving academic success.
• Bookstore
  • The Bookstore has all of your course and apparel needs in one place.
• Child Development Center
  • Jefferson College Child Development Center is an accredited and state licensed laboratory-based center serving children of students, employees, and community families.
• Accessibility Resource Office
  • The Accessibility Resource Office is committed to providing equal access to students with disabilities at Jefferson College.
• Enrollment Services
  • The Office of Enrollment Services is your one stop shop for admissions, advising, financial aid, registration, student records, and transfer services.
• Library
  • Jefferson College students have access to books, movies, professional journal articles, study rooms, computers and tablets, and much more through the Library's website.
• Project SUCCESS
  • Project SUCCESS is an academic support program designed to assist students interested in transferring to four-year institutions to pursue a Bachelor's degree.
• Testing Center
  • The Testing Center offers a variety of testing services for students for placement in college courses and specific programs of study.

Personal

• Campus Police
  • The Jefferson College Police Department is housed on campus and accessible 24 hours a day 365 days of the year.
• Student Wellness
  • The Vikings Care programs are here to support Jefferson College students with events and resources to promote psychological and physical well-being.
• On-Campus Counseling Services
  • Counseling services are confidential and free for any college student. Virtual and in-person counseling services are offered. Located in the Student Center, Room 209; 636-481-3215, TTY Users dial 711; counseling@jeffco.edu.
• Student Financial Services
  • The office of Student Financial Services assists students through the administration of federal, state, and institutional aid.
• Employment Services
  • From job searching, networking, resume writing, to job interviews, the Employment Services office can assist you in all aspects of career preparation.

Resources for Families

College is an experience that affects the whole family, so welcome to the Jefferson College community! As a member of the community, we want to provide you some information and resources that will help you and your student be successful.  

What to Expect

Starting college is a big adjustment—whether your student is coming straight from high school or returning after time in the workforce. This new chapter brings exciting opportunities, challenges, and personal growth.

Here are a few common areas where students often experience growing pains:

Independence

College students are responsible for managing their time, attending classes, completing assignments, and seeking help when they need it. It’s a shift from the structure of high school or full-time work.

Time Management

College schedules are often more flexible, but that doesn’t mean there’s less work. For every hour spent in class, students should plan to spend about three hours studying. Many of our students also balance work and family responsibilities, so organization and focus are key.

Academic Expectations

College courses often require deeper preparation—more reading, more writing, and more critical thinking. Students may need to develop new study habits or access additional support like tutoring or study groups.

Navigating the College Environment

College introduces a variety of new systems and processes. Encourage your student to explore resources like the Student Handbook, College Catalog, and our “What’s the Word?” glossary to get familiar with key terms and procedures.

The Value of Getting Involved

One of the best ways for students to feel connected is by getting involved. Whether it’s joining a club, attending a cultural event, participating in athletics, or exploring leadership roles, these experiences enrich the college journey and support student success.

Classroom Expectations

College instructors expect students to come prepared—having done the reading, completed assignments, and brought the necessary materials. Students are encouraged to actively participate and ask questions. Office hours are a great opportunity to connect with instructors, seek clarification, or discuss concerns.

How to Support Your Student

• Encouragement goes a long way.
  • One of the most important things families can offer is simple but powerful: encouragement. Check in about their classes. Offer a pep talk before a big exam. Celebrate small wins.
• Help them navigate the transition.
  • College can be a big adjustment. Study habits, time management, and academic challenges may feel different than before. Jefferson College offers a wide range of support services designed to help.
• Encourage involvement.
  • Getting involved on campus, whether it’s through clubs, music, athletics, or events—helps students feel more connected. Even if they can’t commit to regular extracurriculars, building relationships with faculty and staff can make a big difference when they need support.
• Remind them: help is always available.
  • Sometimes students just need a nudge to reach out. Encourage them to use campus resources, ask questions, and advocate for themselves. That’s a skill they’ll use far beyond college.