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. CONTACT US

We Provide 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— check out our "how-to" videos below and download this useful roadmap.

Year 1 Roadmap

As an FYE Student, You Have Access To:

• 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

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: January 10, 2026

Take the FYE Pledge
If you’re a first-time-in-college student ready to get the most out of your first year, take the FYE Pledge! By pledging, you’ll join a community committed to success and gain access to exclusive opportunities and resources.

Contact Us
Liz Castillo - Director of Student Success
Email: ecastillo262@alamo.edu
Phone: (210) 486-2473

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 successfully transition to college life, and orient students to the campus.  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 Student Laptop Check Out Learn More Resources for students with children Learn More FYE End of Year Banquet Congratulations to all our FYE students on nearing the end of your first year in college! We celebrated this milestone by hosting a banquet in their honor. 2025 Photos 2024 Photos 2023 Photos

Video Resources

Helpful Information Tips for Success from Students Tips for Success from Faculty All Access Pass Student Handbook Tiger Terms