By Becky St. Clair

What do you think when you hear the acronym “TLC”? Back in the day (and today in the real estate business) it meant “Tender Loving Care.” Those of you old enough to remember the 90s (or who know a lot about music) may recall a 1990s girl band out of Atlanta called TLC, and there’s also a cable television channel by that name—The Learning Channel.

Here at PUC, we have our own TLC, and while we can’t promise any 90s hip-hop (and we promise, no cheesy reality shows!), we can promise some super useful services there. Here on campus, TLC is short for the Teaching & Learning Center. As we get ready to begin another school year, we thought it might be handy for you to know what kinds of services the TLC can provide for you.

Mentoring

Starting college can be challenging for some students. For many, it’s their first time away from home for an extended period of time, and the realities of #adulting are starting to hit home (and dorm!). The TLC has a great team of professionals who will help you keep up with the demands of classes combining with the rest of your life without feeling overwhelmed. To get started with your personalized support, fill out the “Contact an Academic Mentor” form.

Study Groups

We’re not gonna lie, some of your classes will be hard. That’s part of the “blessing and curse” situation of attending a school known for its academic rigor: You’re going to be challenged, but we promise, it’s for your own good, and you will survive. Still doubtful? Join one of the many free study groups in the TLC! They meet twice each week for a lot of those tough classes you’ll encounter because trust us—you’re not the only one finding them hard!

Disabilities Services

If you’re facing additional challenges, such as learning disabilities, injuries or illness, or psychological needs, you won’t be left behind! The TLC has an office specifically for working with students who need special support due to temporary or long-term/permanent disabilities. Reach out to our disabilities coordinator to get the help you need to ensure your academic success here at PUC.

College Skills Workshops

Let’s face it, whether you found your high school classes a breeze or barely muddled through to graduation, in many ways, college is harder. In order to make the cut for whatever your career goals may be, you’ll need solid tools in-hand to make it happen. That’s why the TLC offers dynamic and fun-filled seminars on study skills and time management. These workshops will teach you to capitalize on your personal passions, using the learning and organizational strengths you already possess. Email Michelle Kendrick, who oversees tutoring, at mkendrick@puc.edu for more information.

Academic Advising

One of the biggest stressors on a college student is deciding on a major. Did you know the average college student changes their major six times between freshman year and graduation? And yet they still do graduate, and they still embark on a career. So there is hope, and the TLC, once again, is here to save the day. If you aren’t sure about what you want your major to be, don’t worry! Talk to the TLC’s academic advisor, who can offer a strengths inventory, a personality assessment, and walk you through the results to determine what kinds of jobs might be right for you. Then, they can help you figure out what classes to take and how to get started. All of this—for free*! Make an appointment with the academic advisor and start your future today.

If you have other concerns about your academic success at PUC, the TLC can help. Call (707-965-7688), email (tlc@puc.edu), or stop by any time; the TLC is located between the Dining Commons and Chan Shun/Davidian Halls. Let’s talk!

*Fees may be incurred for some tests; counselors will advise you prior to taking the test whether or not it will incur a fee.