First Year Experience

Navigate Your First Year

with Confidence

College Can Feel Overwhelming—We’re Here to Help

Your first year of college is a time to build your foundation, discover opportunities, and develop the skills you need to succeed. But navigating everything on your own can be challenging. That’s where we come in.

A Clear Path to Success

The First Year Experience (FYE) Department provides resources, programming, and one-on-one support to help you stay on track—whether you join the FYE Program or simply need guidance along the way.

Support for Every First-Year Student

We offer personalized coaching, academic strategies, and student success resources to ALL first-year students. If you have questions, we’re here with answers.

Start Strong and Finish Strong

Your journey begins with Tiger Nation Family Day (TNFD) in August—your official welcome to the St. Philip’s College Tiger Family. We celebrate your achievements at the End of First Year Banquet, marking your growth and success.  Next TNFD: August

Want Extra Support?

Join the FYE Program

If you’re a first-time-in-college student looking for enhanced guidance, exclusive benefits, and a supportive community, the FYE Program is designed for you.

FYE Program Benefits

• One-on-one coaching throughout your first year
• Extended New Student Orientation
• Academic supplies to support your success
• Peer mentoring from experienced students
• Exclusive workshops and events
• Access to grants
• A chance to win prizes like iPads and laptops

Fall 2025 Application Opens in April

Take the First Step

You don’t have to navigate college alone. Whether you need individual support or want to apply for the FYE Program, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Us
Katherine Valdez, Coordinator of Student Success - FYE
Email: kvaldez@alamo.edu
Phone: (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 (Mon-Friday) or the Library at the SWC (Wed & Friday) 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@alamo.edu 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