Services Offered

Tutoring is an active-learning process requiring student and tutor to achieve an understanding of course material through interaction. SSS tutors are trained and well-qualified. Most tutors are recommended by their instructors. Tutors work with students in groups or on an individual basis in hour-long sessions twice per week. Tutoring sessions are held in the Academic Skills Center.

Each student works with a SSS advisor to explore the student's current academic needs and the resources available to develop an individualized system of support. SSS advisors know HCC requirements and expectations and can help students cope with problems they may encounter. Personal, social, career and financial issues are addressed.

SSS has several initiatives to increase participant's knowledge of financial aid and financial literacy.

• The SSS office hosts one to two financial aid workshops per academic year with the Financial Aid Office
• A Credit Card and Personal Credit workshop is held one to two times per year

SSS conducts face-to-face workshops in number of areas related to academic success. Past topics have included time management, test-taking skills, academic and personal development, and study skills. See the SSS 2011-2012 Workshop Schedule.

Student Support Services offers students an opportunity to apply for funds in addition to the Pell grant. These funds are issued once per academic year to students who meet the criteria as specified by SSS policies and procedures.

SSS participants in good standing with the Program are eligible to checkout textbooks, laptops, and calculators. All participants are required to read and sign a contract at the beginning of each academic year.

SSS provides opportunities for students to participate in activities and events outside the college classroom. Past events have included a Washington, DC tour and a trip to New York City for a Broadway Play. Each year SSS participates in annual events such as Black History Month and Native American History Month. Students are encouraged to give feedback regarding the activities that they are interested in participating in.

Career selection and planning is a lifelong process which involves developing self awareness and understanding as well as learning about the realities of the working world. SSS Advisors, Mr. Howard Epps and Mr. Marcus Lewis, are available to help students with this process by appointment.

Career Assessments are often recommended to assist students in gaining awareness and understanding their interests, personality and values. To begin this process, students must attend a career assessment information session to receive the log in information and then take the Strong Interest Inventory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.

For assistance with job search skills, resume writing, interviewing skills and job market information, the SSS advisors are available Monday-Friday by appointment to meet with students.

Student Support Services advisors are very knowledgeable in the area of academic advising. See Beacon Advising Handbook