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I have concerns about not belonging at Pellissippi State.

Thank you for taking the time to share that you are worried about not belonging at Pellissippi State. We appreciate your honesty, and we want to assure you that your well-being and sense of belonging are important to us.

At Pellissippi State, our primary goal is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where all students can thrive. We understand that starting college can be a daunting experience, and it is completely normal to be unsure about how you fit into the college community. However, we firmly believe that every student has a place and can find a sense of belonging here. Let us recommend a few ways to meet and build bonds with faculty, staff, and your fellow students.

Connecting in Class

Your classes are your first and perhaps best opportunity to connect with others on campus. This includes online classes! Consider joining or creating study groups and visiting your professors during their office hours. In addition to helping you learn and understand the material better, these are opportunities to develop relationships with peers and mentors. We recognize that it can sometimes be difficult to start or engage in conversations with new people. For help with social anxiety, loneliness, and improving communication skills, considering reaching out to Counseling Services.

Student Engagement and Leadership

If you are looking for opportunities to get involved, have fun, and make a difference outside of class, Student Engagement and Leadership is the best place to start. They can help you find a student club that aligns with one of your interests, give back to the community as a volunteer, and develop your leadership skills. Student Engagement and Leadership also hosts a variety of social events throughout the semester! Follow them on social media and keep an eye out for advertisements around campus to know when upcoming events are happening.

Campus Employment

We know that many of our students must also work in addition to taking classes. This can sometimes make it difficult to become involved outside of class. Working on campus is a way to earn money and build relationships at Pellissippi State at the same time. Check out our student positions.

Remember that building a sense of belonging takes time and effort. Be proactive in reaching out to others, be open to new experiences, and be patient with yourself as you adjust to college life. Each person’s journey is unique, so find the strategies that work best for you.

Selecting my Major and/or Career Direction

It is very common for college students to be uncertain about what major and career they want to pursue. Luckily, there is no better place for exploring academic and career goals than a college campus. Here are some strategies that will help you find a goal that aligns with who you are.

Learn about Pellissippi State’s majors 

In order to make a choice, you have to know all of your options! Our Academic Advisors are experts in majors and programs both at Pellissippi State and beyond. They can help you answer common questions like:

  • What types of degrees does Pellissippi State offer?
  • What is the difference between a career program and a transfer program
  • What classes does this program require?
  • How long would it take me to get this degree?

Learn more about how to meet with an Academic Advisor

Schedule an appointment for Career Counseling 

Our counselors can help you navigate the major and career decision-making process. Counselors use a variety of approaches to tailor the counseling process to your specific needs. These approaches can include…

  • Taking an in-depth assessment to identify your interests, strengths, and values
  • Developing career research skills using accurate and reliable internet resources
  • Addressing limiting career beliefs and self-efficacy concerns

Learn more about Counseling Services and how to schedule an appointment

Seek out new experiences 

Real-world experience plays a crucial role in career decision making as it provides practical insights, hands-on knowledge, and a realistic understanding of different career paths. These experiences will also become valuable resume builders regardless of what career you pursue! Here are some strategies for finding enriching real-world experiences.

  • Contact our Career Development Office for help on how to find and prepare for current job opportunities. If you want a position that will work with your school schedule, offer competitive wages, and provide structured opportunities to develop career competencies, ask about campus employment!
  • Work with Student Engagement and Leadership to find on-campus experiences such as club membership, leadership development, and volunteerism that can help you.

For most of us, deciding about a major and career is a process and not a one-time choice. When in doubt do something new. That “something new” can be one of the opportunities listed above or something else altogether. Anytime you do something new, you will learn more about yourself and what you are looking for. This is progress towards a choice that you can feel confident about.

Stay Strong Success Center

Welcome to the Stay Strong Success Center – comprised of Success Coaching, the Multicultural Center, and Student Orientation. Created to further Pellissippi State’s vision of providing holistic student support, we aim to help students navigate the many transitions and challenges they may encounter during their college experience. Our devoted team of professionals will offer frequent and meaningful support to ease students’ on-boarding process, normalize help-seeking behavior, foster a sense of belonging and can help with time management, goal-setting and study skills.

If you would like to receive coaching at Pellissippi State, or maybe aren’t sure if you already have a coach or not, please feel free to reach out to us at staystrong@pstcc.edu or 865.694.6677 and we will assist you as quick as we can.

Pellissippi State Foundation Scholarships

Thank you for your interest in applying for a need-based scholarship with the Pellissippi State Foundation. Completing one application will automatically match you to the scholarships for which you qualify. It only takes 5 minutes, and an essay is not required.  You will be asked to include a name and email address for a recommendation/reference. Please alert your contact about the recommendation email from the scholarship platform. If they don’t receive the email, ask them to check their Junk/Spam box.

After clicking on the “apply for scholarships” button:

  1. Look for the “sign in” feature in the top right-hand corner of the webpage.
  2. Use your MyPellissippi username and password to enter the site.
  3. If you are having difficulty with your username and password
    • Try logging in on a computer, not a cell phone
    • Leave off @pstcc.edu
    • Clear your browser history
    • Change your browser

    If you still cannot log in, contact the Help Desk at 865-694-6537 or helpdesk@pstcc.edu.

  4. If you are awarded a scholarship, you will be notified through your Pellissippi State email.

All scholarship application questions can be directed to Tanya Patrick at thpatrick@pstcc.edu or call 865.694.6528. We are happy to assist you.

Apply for a Pellissippi State Foundation Scholarship

About Housing

Thank you for requesting information about housing resources in our area. As you may already know, Pellissippi State does not offer student housing, and unfortunately, there is a lack of affordable housing in our area.

If you are looking for a rental, the Knoxville Apartment Guide is probably the best general resource. You can filter by area, price, and a number of other factors. Apartments near UT campus are often particularly appealing as they are geared towards college students. This means that they often have roommate matching, individual leases, and even some or all utilities included. You can also often find more affordable rentals on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, but these are often privately-owned properties. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but the experience may not be as formal as you would have with a large-scale apartment complex.

If these rental options are cost prohibitive, you might want to explore the following options.

  • 2-1-1 – Tennessee’s community services help line. You can search online for housing resources based on your zip code or simply give them a call to work with a real person who is trained to help you sort out your needs.
  • American Apartment Management Company – Resource for finding affordable housing communities near you
  • Knoxville’s Community Development Corporations – KCDC provides housing options in Knoxville and Knox County specifically designed to meet the needs of families, seniors and disabled low-income residents

For students who are experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness, some agencies to contact include:

Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee (CAC) – The Social Services Program promotes the goal of helping people regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing homelessness or a housing crisis. (There are programs for families as well as unaccompanied youth between 18-24 who are struggling with housing insecurity or homelessness).

Again, we know that finding housing is challenging; and we are here to help. If additional information is needed, please feel free to reach out to the Student Care and Advocacy office using sca@pstcc.edu, and we will try to connect you with the resource that is right for you.

I would like more information about Mental Health Services at Pellissippi State

Personal Counseling

Pellissippi State understands that mental well-being is an essential aspect of your college experience. Our Counseling Services office is staffed by qualified mental health professionals who are dedicated to assisting students with their emotional and psychological needs. They are experienced in providing support for a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and more. Whether you are seeking short-term counseling, referrals to external resources, or ongoing therapy, our counseling team is here to help. All counseling appointments are confidential and free to currently enrolled students.

Career Counseling

A fulfilling career is vital for overall well-being as it provides a sense of purpose, satisfaction, and financial stability. Furthermore, we know that many of our students are in the middle of the major and career decision-making process. It is perfectly normal for you to still be uncertain about making big decisions on what academic program you want to pursue! Our experienced career counselors are dedicated to helping you identify your strengths, interests, and values so that you can effectively plan for your current and future professional endeavors.

Incoming Students

If you are an incoming student who has not yet begun classes, you are still eligible for limited services as long as you are registered for classes in the next semester. Incoming students can schedule one personal counseling consultation. In a consultation, you can ask questions about the counseling process and, if you like, plan services for when the semester begins.

Incoming students are also eligible for two career counseling appointments. Making a career decision is a process that takes time and experience, but these initial appointments can help get you started in the right direction, especially if you are an exploratory student.

Appointment Scheduling

You can find more information on our website, but you are also welcome to schedule an appointment with a counselor to discuss our services, your concerns, and any goals that you may have for a potential counseling relationship. Schedule an appointment with a mental health counselor by following the directions provided.

About the Pellissippi Pantry

Pellissippi State aims to ensure that no student on our campus goes hungry by providing access to nutritious food and essential household items. The Pellissippi Pantry serves as a judgment-free space where students can access a variety of food items, including fresh produce, canned goods, grains, and hygiene products. Our pantry is stocked with donations from generous individuals, local businesses, and community organizations, all with the goal of supporting student well-being and success. We even have fresh produce from our Pellissippi Garden!

We understand that college students experience food insecurity just like our general population. Utilizing the pantry to supplement your grocery budget may help you stretch your resources so that you are able to purchase other things that you need. Each year, we support 120+ students just like you! So, here is what you need to know to determine if the Pantry is right for you:

  • It is free and confidential.
  • It is easy to apply.
    • 1. Go to your myPellissippi account
    • 2. Click on “Student Forms”
    • 3. Go to “Student Care and Advocacy”
    • 4. Select Pellissippi Pantry Application
  • All currently enrolled students are approved.
  • You can utilize services once, twice or the entire academic year.

At the Hardin Valley campus, we have a walk-in Pantry located in Portable D. Participants who would like to pick up from this location will be able to shop for their own items twice a month or submit an order form and drop by and pick up their prepacked order.

We also distribute to the other three campuses every other week. Simply complete the order form and indicate your preferred pick-up location.

If you have additional information about the pantry or the application process, please contact us at ppantry@pstcc.edu.

Community Resources

If our distribution times do not work with your schedule or you feel more comfortable accessing resources off campus, you can locate additional resources through these sites:

If you have additional questions, please contact either the Pellissippi Pantry directly using ppantry@pstcc.edu or our Student Care and Advocacy office using sca@pstcc.edu, and we will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have. Again, thank you for inquiring about emergency food resources. We are here to help!

Prior Learning Assessment

Hello, and thank you for asking about Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). My name is Annette Eldridge. I work in Academic Services and I am happy to share some information about PLA with you. PLA is a way for you to earn college credit for skills and knowledge you’ve already acquired. You may qualify for PLA credit for learning and skills you gained through work, employer training programs, military service, independent study, volunteer work or community service, or open-source courseware study. The following checklist may assist you in determining if you are a candidate for Prior Learning Assessment credit. Do any of these statements apply to you?

  • I am over the age of 24.
  • · have a minimum of 5 years work experience.
  • My work experience includes leadership, management, or supervisory responsibilities.
  • I have certifications and/or memberships in professional organizations.
  • I have participated in corporate training programs.
  • I have completed non-credit college courses.
  • I have hobbies or personal interests that I have developed through informal independent study.
  • I have been involved with extensive volunteer or community work.
  • I am or was a member of the armed forces.
  • I have lived in a foreign country and/or traveled extensively.

If any of these apply to you, you may be a candidate for PLA. Read more about PLA and if you need additional information, please contact me atabeldridge@pstcc.edu or 865-539-7059.

Returning to College After Taking Time Off

Below you will find information about several offices designed to assist you in your transition.

We are excited that you have decided to return to college! We understand that coming back to the classroom after a break of any kind can be intimidating. For example, we know that some students may feel like they do not belong, have fallen behind, or have doubts about their ability to be successful.

It is understandable that you might feel a little nervous about taking classes again after taking a break from college. We hope these tips and resources help you come back stronger than ever.

However, returning students have many strengths. Here are just a couple:

  • A clear goal. If you have made the choice to come back to college, you probably have done so because you have a specific reason for getting a college degree. You might be pursuing your dream career or wanting to provide for your family. In any case, having a clear purpose for coming back to college will be an incredible asset when challenges arise.
  • Life experience. We at Pellissippi State know that college is only one way to get valuable skills and knowledge and know that your life experience will help you in the classroom. You should also go to our Prior Learning Assessment page to see if you qualify for college credit based on what you already know.

Here are some things to remember if you are returning to college after an extended absence:

  • Ease your way back into the classroom
  • Do not compare yourself to other people
  • Be open to new opportunities as you learn more about your options
  • Learning is lifelong and occurs in formal and informal settings throughout our lives

The following offices are great resources for returning students:

Counseling

Pellissippi State Counselors are available virtually and in-person to provide personal, career and academic counseling to students. Our Counselors are licensed or license-eligible professionals who can help you improve your mental health, explore your career options and develop new academic skills.

Counselors are available Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. for appointments. Please contact 865.694.6480 or counseling@pstcc.edu to make an appointment or to receive more information our counseling services.

Advising

All degree-seeking students at Pellissippi State, either part-time or full-time, are assigned an academic advisor. The advisor will help you clarify your academic goals, provide accurate information about your degree options, and assist you in the development of an academic plan. This is an important relationship designed to help you be successful in your return to your educational path.

Check your Pellissippi email for information about how to make an appointment through the Navigate App

Stay Strong Success Center

Comprised of Success Coaching, the Multicultural Center, and Student Orientation. Created to further Pellissippi State’s vision of providing holistic student support, we aim to help students navigate the many transitions and challenges they may encounter during their college experience. Our devoted team of professionals will offer frequent and meaningful support to ease students’ on-boarding process, normalize help-seeking behavior, foster a sense of belonging and can help with time management, goal-setting and study skills.

If you would like to receive coaching at Pellissippi State, or maybe aren’t sure if you already have a coach or not, please feel free to reach out to us at staystrong@pstcc.edu or 865.694.6677 and we will assist you as quick as we can.

Start Strong Center

The Start Strong Center brings together Admissions, Records, Financial Aid and registration services in one convenient location. We are committed to ensuring you have the best experience on your journey at Pellissippi State. The Start Strong team is ready to assist with all of your questions about Pellissippi State, the application process, federal and state financial aid including the FAFSA and other necessary applications, transfer credits and program requirements. We believe that your success begins with our office. Students are able to see most account information by logging into their myPellissippi. The alert box will show you any items that need immediate attention. All other information may be located by selecting More Options in the Student Self-Service box and then choosing the Student tab or Financial Aid tab. If you are not able to find the information you are looking for you may also visit the Start Strong webpage https://www.pstcc.edu/startstrong/ or email startstrong@pstcc.edu.

Stay Strong Success Center

Welcome to the Stay Strong Success Center – comprised of Success Coaching, the Multicultural Center, and Student Orientation. Created to further Pellissippi State’s vision of providing holistic student support, we aim to help students navigate the many transitions and challenges they may encounter during their college experience. Our devoted team of professionals will offer frequent and meaningful support to ease students’ on-boarding process, normalize help-seeking behavior, foster a sense of belonging and can help with time management, goal-setting and study skills.

Our department provides academic support services, advocacy and a supportive and welcoming environment to underrepresented minority students as they transition into or continue their education at Pellissippi State. In addition to success coaching, we provide cultural programming, encourage academic and student engagement and provide connections to community and campus resources. We emphasize student belonging—helping students find community at Pellissippi State and affirming this college as a place where students can achieve their goals.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Stay Strong Success Center at staystrong@pstcc.edu or 865.694.6677.

Technology

Hello! Thank you for letting us know you have concerns about technology. Whether you need a computer, internet access, or assistance with a webpage, or any technical issue, we are here to help you! Please let us know more about what concerns you. You may email or call us, at the Computer Help Desk at helpdesk@pstcc.edu or 865.694.6573. I hope you have a very successful learning experience at Pellissippi State! Thank you.

To learn more about borrowing technology, please visit the Libraries’ website or contact us at Ask a Librarian. This service is free to all students.

Childcare and Caregiver Resources

We know that many of our students are taking care of the daily needs of someone else, whether that be a child, grandparent, or other loved one. Below, you will find some general resources for both childcare and caregiver support. However, please feel free to reach out to us at sca@pstcc.edu or use Navigate to schedule an appointment with one of our Student Care and Advocacy staff to discuss your specific situation and needs.

Childcare Resources

Tennessee Childcare Resource and Referral

A valuable resource that can assist parents in finding childcare options in their area. They provide information on licensed childcare providers, including daycare centers, family homes, and preschool programs. They can help you access referrals, provide guidance on choosing quality care, and offer information on financial assistance programs that may be available to you.

Smart Steps (TN)

“Smart Steps” refers to the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program. It is a state-run program that provides financial assistance to eligible families to help cover the costs of childcare.

Knoxville Head Start

Head Start is a federally funded program that offers comprehensive early childhood education and support services for low-income families. The Knox County Head Start program provides high-quality preschool education, health screenings, and family support services. Contact them for information on eligibility criteria and enrollment options.

Caregiver Support

Tennessee Respite Coalition (TRC)

TRC is a statewide organization that provides support and resources for caregivers. They offer respite care services, which allow caregivers to take a temporary break from their caregiving responsibilities. TRC can provide information on local respite care providers, support groups, and educational resources.

Alzheimer’s Tennessee

If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, Alzheimer’s Tennessee is a valuable resource. They offer support groups, educational programs, and caregiver training to help you navigate the challenges associated with these conditions.

National Family Caregiver Support Program

The purpose of the National Family Caregiver Support is to help families care, as long as possible, for older relatives with chronic illness or disability in their homes.

Additional resources can be found on CAC’s Family Caregiver Support page.

Transportation

Thank you for requesting information about transportation options at Pellissippi State. We understand that everyone’s transportation needs are different, and resources vary based on the county that you live in and the campus that you attend.

Below are some of the resources that may be able to assist you with your transportation needs.

UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE’S BUS (THE “T”) ORNL/PSCC ROUTE

Website: ridethet.utk.edu
Phone: 865.974.6031

The University of Tennessee’s bus (the “T”) route is available to students, faculty, and staff who are taking classes on Hardin Valley Campus. This service is fare-free for all passengers and all “T” vehicles are accessible to passengers with disabilities. You must present your PSCC student ID to ride “the T”. Pick up is at Hardin Valley Clayton Performance Art Center and drop off is at Cumberland Avenue and James Agee Street. The bus leaves UT at 7 a.m., Noon, and 4 p.m. You can download the UT Mobile App here: https://www.utk.edu/mobile/ to use “the T’s” GPS tracking map to monitor current location and arrival time, route stop information, and new updates on route and service changes.

More information about “the T”

KNOX AREA TRANSIT (KAT)

Website: katbus.com
Phone: 865.637.3000

KAT is the City of Knoxville’s public transportation system and offers a Semester Pass Program for Pellissippi students. KAT has fixed routes that serve many areas in our community, including our Magnolia Campus. While KAT does not provide direct services to our Hardin Valley Campus, they have partnered with the Community Action Committee (CAC) to provide service (See below).

KNOX COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE (CAC)

Website: knoxcac.org/transportation/
Phone: 865.577.7591

The CAC provides transportation to people within Knox County who have no other means to get to medical appointments and other essential services. CAC has collaborated with Knox Area Transit (KAT) to provide transportation to Pellissippi Hardin Valley. Knox County residents who are not on a KAT route, can reach out to CAC directly to arrange transportation. Call the number above to learn more.

EAST TENNESSEE HUMAN RESOURCE AGENCY (ETHRA)

Website: ethra.org/programs/16/public-transit/

Phone: 800.232.1565

ETHRA provides transportation to 16 counties surrounding Knox County. Anyone can ride, but you must schedule an appointment at least three business days in advance. Medical trips do have priority. In-county trips are $3.00 each way, and there are extra charges if you need to cross county lines or have multiple stops.

SMART TRIPS

Website: mysmarttrips.org
Phone: 865.215.2916

Carpooling saves you money and can provide a means of transportation that would otherwise not be possible. To find carpool partners for work, school, or other commutes, register to be a part of Smart Trips and use the online ride matching database to connect with peers already travelling to or near your destination. Use your PSTCC.edu email address at mysmarttrips.org to register. Once you have registered, or if you are already a member, log into your account and follow the instructions.

TENNESSEE 2-1-1

Website: tn211.myresourcedirectory.com
Phone: 211

2-1-1 is Tennessee’s community services help line. When you call, you’ll get a real person, one who is trained to help you sort out your needs, and then give you phone numbers and addresses of the closest places where you can get help. They can help you explore if there are other local transportation resources if any of the previously described does not work for you.

If you need additional support with transportation, please contact us via email at sca@pstcc.edu. We are here to help!

TRIO

TRIO Student Support Services is funded by the U.S Department of Education and is designed to help increase the college graduation rates of students who are first generation, have limited income, or have documented disabilities. Services provided by TRIO Student Support Services include the following:

  • Tutoring – one on one individualized tutoring through an assigned tutor/mentor
  • Computer lab located in the TRIO SSS office for use by TRIO participants for completion of course assignments
  • Guidance in selecting academic courses to fulfill degree requirements
  • Financial aid information and assistance with completing financial aid applications provided each year to assure correct completion of the FAFSA provided by expert financial aid officers
  • Financial literacy education
  • Academic and personal development workshops covering a wide range of student interests and needs including study skills
  • Transfer Assistance to four-year colleges and universities including campus visits and application assistance

If you are interested in learning more about, or applying for services, you may visit the TRIO office located in ERC 218 located on the Hardin Valley campus or contact Venetia Williams at vcwilliams@pstcc.edu.

Academic Tutoring Center

Study habits are a very important part of being a student, achieving better grades, improving organization, increasing motivation and confidence, and improving academic performance. The tutoring center assists students with learning how to study smart and is a place where students practice self-discipline and can stay accountable.

The Academic Tutoring Center provides a safe, non-judgmental environment that empowers students to become self-sustaining life-long learners by offering academic tutoring, supplemental instruction, and student success services.

Quick Study Tips

  • Get a phone number from at least one person in each class. You’ll have someone to call if you miss a class for any reason.
  • Start written assignments early. This affords you time to make improvements to your work.
  • Listening to music can be helpful, but try to listen to instrumental music.
  • Microsoft Word is the standard word processing software. Getting to know Word’s shortcuts and features will save you countless hours. Visit one of the Academic Tutoring Centers or reach out to one of our virtual tutors (writing@pstcc.edu) for help with Microsoft Word.
  • It’s helpful to study with other students. Try to study with students who are serious about their schoolwork and do your best to keep study sessions focused and on track.
  • Ask for clarification when something arises that you don’t understand. Don’t wait. Get help.
  • Review is the key to learning anything. When you review, information moves from short-term memory into long-term memory. Review often!

My Study Habits

  • Get started: Be sure to start assignments and homework early, try not to procrastinate. When you wait until the last minute, the tutoring center can get backed up with assignments and the wait list can be very long to get a paper looked at. Procrastination can cause unnecessary stress.
  • What kind of learner are you? Know what type of learner you are (visual, physical, verbal, audio, logical). Take this short quiz for a better understanding of your own personal style.
  • Take notes and review notes: The best note-takers have the presentation notes provided by the instructor already printed before class starts, this way your notes can be additional information on content and will help you make easier connections. Note-taking on a laptop is becoming more popular, but in order to stay focused you must not be surfing the web or emailing while in class. This reduces your ability to retain the information being presented.
  • Join a group or create a study group: It’s fun to have other students to study with. If a group is not available, create your own study group with the people sitting around you. The library has study rooms that can be reserved. Go to pstcc.edu/library/ and select the icon “Study Rooms”.
  • Get sleep and rest: Your brain functions better with sleep, eight hours is ideal.
  • Have a good place to study: Create a quiet, comfortable, well-lit area with lots of writing space and all the equipment you need. Be sure you have your textbook, the binder for each subject, pens, pencils, highlighters, eraser, calculators, planner or calendar, and post-it notes.
  • Minimize distractions: Force yourself to do one thing only – study (no tv, no phone, no email)
  • Be smart about when you study: Know what time of day is best suited for you. It is best to study around the same time each day but that is often difficult. Make a weekly plan for how to get the best out of your schedule.
  • Create a study plan: Organize what needs to get done (write thesis, Math pgs 44-50, read PSYC pgs 30-56); prioritize if needed (what needs to be done first and so on). Make your own personal planner
  • Break large assignments down: Use a planner to set a schedule to keep on task.
  • Take breaks: After studying for 30 minutes, take a break (stretch, get a snack). Avoid texting or email.

Tutoring Center Tips

  • Make sure you know the instructor’s office hours. The instructor can be a great resource for confirmation and direction. If you are unclear about anything, your first contact should be to your instructor.
  • No appointment is ever necessary.
  • Take the time to locate the Academic Tutoring Center at your campus. Visit our website for more information.
  • Tutoring schedules are provided at each campus. You can also call the front desk at 865.539.7079 or go online to get more information.
  • The best times to come for quieter or more personalized sessions are in the morning or late afternoons. Our busiest times are 11:00a – 2:00p. Busy times can be a bit noisy, and one tutor can have up to 5 or 6 students each. Organize your schedule to best meet your own needs.
  • Be bold! The atmosphere in the tutoring center can be noisy at times, come in, sign in, and give it a try. You might be surprised that working in a group is satisfying. You may discover that you can get the information you need in a very short period of time and then finish your homework or assignment by yourself at one of our computers. It is a friendly and open environment, and we want you to get the help you are looking for.
  • Be prepared for your tutoring session by bringing your book, binder material, notes, instructor presentation, assignment sheet (rubric), and any other materials that can help the tutor understand your needs. Be sure to bring any specific questions you may have about the material.
  • Don’t procrastinate! Starting assignments early will be rewarding when it comes to tutoring. The Writing Center can back up quickly on assignment days even when the assignments have been given weeks to complete. Don’t allow yourself to get caught in line waiting your turn. Come early and come often!

You can find out about our services online. Feel free to contact us for any additional information.

Jan Sharp
Director
865.539.7182

Phylicia Washington
Coordinator
865.539.7211

Beth Scott
Administrative Assistant
865.539.7079

Veterans

As you transition from military to civilian life, Pellissippi State Community College has the support you need to succeed. Whether you plan to earn an associate degree and enter the workforce, or transfer to a four-year university, the Veterans Services office can help you fulfill your educational goals. Pellissippi State provides assistance with financial aid and advising as well as access to tutoring, counseling, disability services and social activities designed for student veterans. Meet with an advisor (advising@pstcc.edu) about your academic plan and get involved in the on-campus Veterans Center at our Hardin Valley Campus. Contact us at veterans@pstcc.edu or kcfritts@pstcc.edu.

Working a Job 15+ Hours a Week While Attending Classes

Working and completing a degree at the same time can be difficult, but with the right approach it can be done! Let us provide you with tips and resources that can help to balance being both a student and an employee. Did you know that about 80 percent of community college students are working while taking classes? Here is some information that can help you balance your work and classroom responsibilities.

  1. Anticipate needing to spend approximately 2-3 hours outside of class on assignments and studying for every credit hour you take. For example, someone taking 12 credit hours (4 courses) will want to have 24-36 hours available.
  2. Consider work-study. The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time jobs in administrative offices on campus to students who qualify. These jobs must accommodate your class schedule and gives you another reason to be on campus. To determine if you are eligible, complete the Federal Work-Study application that is found in your MyPellissippi account under the “Financial Aid” tab.
  3. Find a dedicated study space. Routine and structure are incredibly valuable when preparing the mind to learn information. Whether it is a specific area of the library or a designated table at home, having a space that you associate only with schoolwork can help you focus.
  4. Develop a system for staying organized. Time will be one of your most valuable resources. Utilize calendars and to-do lists to make sure that you are getting the most out of your day. It may take a few attempts to find a system that works well for you, but do not give up!
  5. Take time for yourself. Include “me time” in your schedule that allows you to engage in an activity (or lack of activities) that helps you relax and recharge your battery. You might be tempted to see this as a “waste of time;” however, self-care is an essential habit of the effective student.

Whatever you do, remember that you do not have to do it alone! There are multiple departments on campus who can help you in different ways. If you need help scheduling your courses at times that do not conflict with your job, meet with an Academic Advisor. Our Counselors can collaborate with you to develop strategies for staying organized and using your time effectively. Get the most value out of every hour you have by working with a Tutor in the Academic Tutoring Center. Links to each of these resources can be found below.

Pellissippi State Community College is accredited by the Pellissippi State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate degree. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Pellissippi State Community College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).