First Year Experience

Supporting Your First Year

Every Step of the Way

The First Year Experience (FYE) Department understands that your first year of college is a time to build, develop, and discover. We provide resources, programming, and one-on-one support to help you succeed—whether you are a part of the FYE Program or just looking for guidance.

Support for All First-Year Students

You do not have to be in the FYE Program to receive help. We encourage all first-year students to reach out for one-on-one guidance, academic support, and student success strategies to help you navigate your college journey.

Signature Events

Our year begins with Tiger Nation Family Day (TNFD) in August—your official induction into the St. Philip’s College Tiger Family—and concludes with the End of First Year Banquet, where we celebrate your accomplishments.

Next TNFD: August

Want Extra Support?

Join the FYE Program

First-time-in-college students interested in enhanced guidance and exclusive benefits can apply for the First Year Experience (FYE) Program, which requires active participation and engagement throught the year.

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, and a chance to win prizes like iPads and laptops.

The Fall 2025 Application Opens in April

Whether you're looking for one-on-one support or considering joining the FYE Program, we’re here to help.

Contact Us

Katherine Valdez, Coordinator of Student Success - FYE
Email: kvaldez@2fitfashion.com
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@2fitfashion.com 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