As a new student, seeing a counselor is probably the most important thing you can do. Our counselors can help you find the right level of classes and assist you in designing an educational plan to help you meet your educational goal. Counselors can also direct you to SRJC's many supportive services such as the Transfer Center, Career Center, and Disability Resources.

As a continuing student, or as a student transferring from another college, you can utilize counseling services to help you consider various goals and career choices, design an educational plan for your goals, informally evaluate previous college records, develop effective study techniques, and apply for transfer to four year schools.

• Counselors are available by appointment. To schedule a half-hour appointment, call 527-4451 (Santa Rosa Campus) or 778-3914 (Petaluma Campus). Appointments are recommended for long term educational planning, career discussions, informal evaluation of coursework for transfer and/or Associate degree. During the busy registration time, counselors are available only on a drop-in basis. It is best to make an appointment with a counselor before registration begins. Drop-in is on a first come, first served basis.

• Counselors are available on a drop-in daily basis in Bailey Hall (Santa Rosa) and Student Services (Petaluma) on a scheduled basis. Drop-in is designed for short discussions and questions. You will be able to meet with a counselor for approximately 10-15 minutes.

• If you plan to take 9 units or more, you must see a counselor to develop a MAP (my academic plan). Students who have a Bachelor's degree or who have 24 or more college units on file at SRJC are exempt from this requirement.

• If you plan to enroll in less than 9 units, it is not required that you see a counselor, however it is highly recommended that you do. The last thing you want is to have another semester added to your studies because you didn't get careful educational guidance.

• During your first semester a counselor can help you:
  • resolve problems you are having related to your success as a student
  • identify an educational goal
  • answer questions regarding your educational goal
  • choose classes appropriate for you
  • find resources that can help you meet your goal
  
  
• Early Bird Counseling qualifies continuing students for Priority 1A registration. Take advantage of this by scheduling an appointment with a counselor early in the next semester. Reminder postcards are sent through the mail.