Growth, Progress, & Skills (GPS) for College

Navigating college life can be challenging, with so much to figure out — and that's perfectly normal! 

We have created the GPS for College Series to support you in your journey. Participating in these events will give you the tools and knowledge to navigate college life successfully, ensuring you have the support and skills needed to thrive. In the GPS for College Series you will: 

  • Enhance Academic Skills: Learn effective time management, note-taking, study techniques, and test-taking strategies to excel in your coursework.
  • Develop Personal and Practical Skills: Gain insights into career paths and enhance your communication skills, equipping you for future success.
  • Foster a Sense of Belonging and OCC Pride: Discover the resources available to support your success inside and outside the classroom. 
     
DayTimeLocationEventDescriptionArea/Person Assigned to:
September 4, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Planning Your Semester/Getting ReadyStart your semester ahead of the game by taking some time to plan out assignments, exams, and other important campus events. Attendees need to bring course syllabi.School of TEC – Ted Mathews
September 9, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Time is Money: Don’t Spend It All in One Place!

Feeling overwhelmed with the extra time you have this semester? This workshop will provide an overview of time management techniques and help you develop a routine to manage your time effectively.

School of LAS – AJ Suslovic

September 11, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmGordon Great RoomGetting Involved/Campus Resources

Interested in getting involved? This workshop will help you look into campus-recognized organizations, inform you of campus events for specific groups, and provide an overview of important campus resources.

SOLE
September 16, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Study Smarter Not Harder

Looking for another way to study or take notes? Ready to ace your next exam? During this session, we will:

  • Cover the Pomodoro technique.

  • Learn SQ3R study system.

  • Practice the technique with your own course content.

  • Set you up to successfully implement this technique on your own.
  • Provide an overview of different study activities.

  • Help you outline a study plan for quizzes and exams.

  • Provide test taking tips and ways to reduce test anxiety.

School of LAS – Megan Detor
September 23, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205How to Study Using a Whiteboard

Using a whiteboard can be an effective and fun way to study! This workshop will share different ways to use a whiteboard to outline, study, and stay organized. You'll be provided with a whiteboard to take with you to continue the strategies learned in the workshop!

CSTEP – Leslie Reid
September 30, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Financial Literacy 101The workshop will provide you with basic knowledge of managing your money effectively, including budgeting, managing expenses, saving for short-term and long-term, maintaining good credit, and staying away from financial scams.TRiO – Meghan Bahns
October 7, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Procrastinators Anonymous: How to Manage Your Time Wisely

Feeling overwhelmed this semester? Are you having trouble finishing course assignments? This workshop will:

  • Provide an overview of time management techniques.

  • Help you develop a routine to manage your time effectively.
  • Find out how to deal with procrastination.

  • Consider what you can do to keep making meaningful progress in class.

  • Recharge for the remainder of the semester.
School of LAS – AJ Suslovic
October 14, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Study Smarter Not Harder

Looking for another way to study or take notes? Ready to ace your next exam? During this session, we will:

  • Cover the pomodoro technique.

  • Learn SQ3R study system.

  • Practice the technique with your own course content.

  • Set you up to successfully implement this technique on your own.
  • Provide an overview of different study activities.

  • Help you outline a study plan for quizzes and exams.

  • Provide test taking tips and ways to reduce test anxiety.
School of LAS – Megan Detor
October 21, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Put your OCC degree to workCareer & transfer services will give you an overview on how to set yourself up now for future success — “who do you want to be?”  Career & Transfer Services
October 28, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Lead, Motivate, and Inspire! Building Leadership Skills

Interested in becoming a leader but unsure what it means to "be a leader"? During this workshop, you will:

  • Consider what it means to be a leader on and off campus.

  • Analyze different skills that leaders have.
  • Prepare to continue your leadership development.
School of ACBE
November 4, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Navigating Coursework as an English Language LearnerThis session will showcase the tools and support services available across campus to English Language Learners. During the session you'll have an opportunity to sign up for extended time on tests, learn about our tutoring services in the learning center, experiment with assistive technology, and have an opportunity to chat with English Language Instruction instructors.Justin Pritchard
November 11, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Crafting Your Story: Mastering the Art of Personal Statements!Ready to transfer to your 4-year college? You will need to put together your personal statement. Learn how to articulate your experiences, goals, and motivations in a clear and engaging manner. Gain insights on structuring your narrative, highlighting your strengths, and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re just starting to write or looking to polish your draft, this workshop will provide the tools and strategies you need to create a standout personal statement!Laine Lubar
November 18, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Final Countdown: Rock Your Final Project & Exam Prep!

This workshop will help you reflect on the semester and determine what you need for a successful finals week. During this session, we will:

  • Explore learning activities and study strategies.

  • Find your finals week schedule.
  • Create your finals study plan.
Learning Center – Andy Hunter
December 2, 202412:15pm – 1:15pmCoulter room C205Total Wellness: Strategies for Resilience and Well-being

The Six Dimensions of Wellness (emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual) all play a role in your holistic wellness and fulfillment. During this workshop, you will:

  • Learn about the dimensions and how they can impact you daily.

  • Learn what it means to be aware of your self-care practices.

  • Consider what you can do regularly to practice self-care.
  • De-stress before the end of the semester and get ready for finals by focusing on yourself first. 
School of HWHS