Category Archives: College Tips

Missing Class? Here’s What To Do 

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Although you should never miss class, we understand emergencies can happen, or you can get sick. If you are ever to miss class in college, here’s what you need to do: 

Check Attendance & Late Work Policy 

If you plan on missing classes due to being sick, check your professor’s attendance and late work policies in their syllabi to know what to expect before talking with them. 

Check Course Calendar 

Another thing you need to check in your syllabi is your course calendar. See what your professor plans on teaching the day you miss and bring that up with them to see if there will be any changes. 

Talk or Email Your Professor In Advance 

Please inform your professors ahead of time that you will be missing class. Not only is this the responsible thing to do, but it allows you and your professor to work out a plan for missing class. If you’re not able to meet with your professor, address these things in your email: 

  • Apologize for missing class
  • Explain why you were not in attendance
  • Ask what you can do to make up for your absence 
  • Thank them for their time

Don’t wait till the end of the day to email them- do it ASAP.

Ask Your Classmates & Professor For Help 

Ask your classmates what you missed in class and see if they can share some of their notes with you. Bring up any questions or concerns to your professors because you don’t want to get behind in lectures or assignments. 

One of the great things about attending PUC is being in smaller classes. This makes it easier to meet with your professors, have them get to know you, and build relationships with them-unlike larger universities. Our professors care about you and your well-being, so don’t be afraid to talk to them when something comes up and you’ll have to miss class. They will do all they can to help you- just do your part and reach out to them. 

Achieve Your Best On Tests

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Sometimes students study so hard for a test and don’t get the exact outcome they hoped for. If your study techniques aren’t working for you, it’s time to change something about it. Here are ways to achieve your best on exams.

Make A Study Plan

Balancing your time between doing homework and studying for several classes can be tough. Making a study plan can help you stay on track of what you need to study and how long you want to spend studying. Note what specific parts you need to focus on and review. Either make this plan the night before or in the morning, so you know what needs to get done.

Go To Class

Skipping class will not help you prepare and do better on exams, so please go to class. Going to class will keep you on top of your studies, help you remember information, and feel more prepared for exams.

Take Notes

Take notes in class so you can look back on them while studying. Some teachers use PowerPoints during lectures, so write down everything and anything you know is important. Your notes will be a big resource to you and will help you prepare for your test.

Make A Study Guide

Make a study guide in advance with the notes you’ve taken and handouts given in class. If you organize your notes by terms, chapters, and sections, it’ll be easier to find what you need and be more beneficial to your learning.

(A lot of students use Google Docs to make a study guide. If you haven’t tried that yet, make your study guides there.)

Use Supplies That Helps You Learn

If you don’t enjoy taking notes or writing a study guide, use supplies that will make studying more interesting. Use colored sharpies, pens, and highlighters to make your study guide. Color code sections that you need to study more or will for sure be on the test.

Go Over Questions You Struggle With

When you study, make a little more time to go over the questions you struggle with. You won’t be able to achieve your best on tests if you go into it with uncertain answers and less confidence.

Work With Others

Find classmates that you would work well with when it comes to studying. Students have found that having a study group helps them remember the material and; gives them a better understanding of what to expect on the test.

(If you need extra help understanding a class, visit TLC to schedule a tutoring session or ask for help from your professor. PUC has resources to help you succeed!)

Work Ahead

Don’t wait until the week of your test to start studying. Work ahead and start writing out the information you will need to know. The earlier you study, the more ready you will be for the test.

Take Breaks

Take breaks so you don’t overwhelm yourself or burn out. You’re going to be gathering a lot of information, so give yourself and your brain a break.

Get A Good Night’s Rest

Getting a good night’s rest will make a difference in how well you do on your test. You’ll be more alert and won’t feel tired or sluggish.

We hope some of these tips help you. Study habits are important in college and it’s good to establish them early. Work hard, take care of yourself, and pray. You got this!

Staying Healthy & Fit At PUC 

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Going to college and starting a new school year can be an overwhelming change for a lot of students. It can be difficult to incorporate a healthy lifestyle when you’re busy and feel that you don’t have enough time to have a proper meal or exercise. Here at PUC, we encourage an active and healthy lifestyle by giving our students the resources and opportunities they need to live a good lifestyle. Here are ways to stay healthy and fit at PUC.  

Change Your Eating Habits 

College comes with the freedom of choosing when and what to eat. Our dining commons serve locally grown fruits and vegetables and offer healthy dishes for each meal. If you’re tempted by candy or junk food, opt for healthier options. The dining commons is stocked with chips, ice cream, and candy, so we’re not saying to cut out sugar completely but to have a good balance.

*add photo of students eating at the cafe or food being served

Utilize The Pacific Auditorium

The Pacific Auditorium is PUC’s gym, which provides a fitness center, weight room, rock climbing wall, pool, and three indoor courts for basketball, volleyball, soccer, or badminton. Outside you can find the track, six tennis courts, and the soccer, football, and baseball fields. There are plenty of ways for students to workout and stay active on campus. 

*add photo of students at the gym 

Move Through The Back 40 

The back 40 is made up of over 30 miles of trails for everyone to enjoy the outdoors by hiking, biking, running, or walking. (Some students even do yoga out there to relish the fresh air and peaceful environment.) Since PUC owns the back 40, it’s great for our students to live on a campus with such a vast backyard that not only benefits their physical health but also their mental health. 

*add photo of students biking, hiking, or running in the back 40

Use The Dorm Gyms 

The dorms also have workout rooms for residents to use. Exercise equipment such as treadmills, multi-functional trainers, and weights are provided. Students like having workout rooms in their dorms because it allows them to just go down the hall or stairs to add a workout early in the morning or between classes. 

*if photo is available, add photo of one of the dorm gyms

Join Intramurals 

Intramurals are a great way to exercise while also having fun with friends. Sports such as flag football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, and badminton are offered throughout the school year for students to get a range of options to choose from. 

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Walk, Don’t Drive 

Every student has had that moment waking up for class and dreading to walk to class early in the morning. The temptation to drive instead of walk to class is real, especially when it’s chilly out. We know the struggle, but don’t waste your gas driving to class. Save money and walk to class instead. 

*add photo of student/students walking around campus

Embrace The Stairs

Embrace the stairs around campus. Your legs will feel stronger by taking the stairs and getting a cardio workout every day. If you have time, take the long way to class to get more steps in and take in our beautiful campus. Sometimes there’s no way to avoid them, so embrace the stairs. 

*add photo of students walking the stairs by Clark Hall

Enjoy Linda Falls

Just down the road from the main campus is Linda Falls- a favorite spot for many students. Students don’t have to go far to embark the outdoors when we have trails nearby and a pretty waterfall to enjoy.

*add photo of students at Linda Falls or just Linda Falls 

Go Beyond Campus

When students feel like venturing beyond campus, some places they go to are Mount St. Helena, Mount Tamalpais, and Moore Creek State Park. With these places not far from campus, students are able to venture out by foot or wheels to get a good workout in while enjoying delightful views. 

*add photo of students at one of the hiking points or hiking mountains around PUC

Have A Good Attitude

Your attitude makes a big difference in how you see yourself and being consistent with your health goals. With school, work, and personal life taking most of your time, it’s normal to have no energy after a long day to exercise. Looking forward to adding a workout in your day or having one of your favorite healthy meals changes your attitude and can get you excited to continue reaching your health goals. 

Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

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It’s obvious that college is a place for you to break out of your comfort zone, but you’d be surprised how many students hesitate to do so. It can be scary trying new things and meeting new people, but that’s why PUC has established many opportunities for students to partake in. Here are five ways to break out of your comfort zone. 

Join A Club 

With over 30 clubs at school, you will find a club that fits your interests, major, and culture. Clubs organize events throughout the year, which is a great way to meet other people within your department and outside of it. Joining a club is a good way to break you out of your comfort zone. 

Go To School Events 

There are many events throughout the school year for you to attend. Clubs, departments, dorms, and SA host various events for students to enjoy. Cheer on your Pioneers at their games too! Go to school events because you don’t want to miss out on the fun students and faculty plan for you. 

Get A Job or Internship 

If you’re interested in getting a job, whether within your department or outside of it, let your advisor know. They might know what jobs are available and connect you with people that are hiring. Getting a job is a fantastic way to break out of your comfort zone because you’ll be learning new skills and meeting new people. 

If you need an internship for your major, meet with your advisor so they can help you find what opportunities are out there for you. You’ll be getting experience in your field early, which will look good on your resume and also help you gain a better understanding of where you want to work in the future. 

Volunteer 

PUC has many opportunities for students to volunteer. Talk to your advisor to see what volunteer opportunities on and off campus you can be a part of. Volunteering is not just a way to break out of your comfort zone, but to help others and see the world from a different perspective. 

Put Yourself Out There

From joining clubs to volunteering to going on school trips, PUC gives you many ways to put yourself out there. This doesn’t just apply to new students, but returning students as well. Even seniors should put themselves out there! You’ll never know what else you could be missing to make your last year more memorable. Meet new people, try new things, and get the best out of your college experience. 

Breaking out of your comfort zone is the beauty of college. It may be nerve-racking, but you won’t know what’s out there if you don’t allow yourself to get out there. Every student has had to break out of their comfort zone more than once. 

Things College Freshmen Need To Know 

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The first day of college is filled with many emotions. You’re anxious but at the same time excited, and maybe you know what to expect, but you never know what can happen. You’re starting a new phase in your life and doing things on your own. It’s a lot! You’re going to learn new things every day, and we wanted to share six things you should know and remember throughout your first year of college. 

It’s Okay To Be Homesick 

You have to know that feeling homesick is normal. You’re in a new environment, surrounded by new people and things- it can be overwhelming. Others feel the same way too, so don’t think you have to hide it or feel embarrassed. It’s okay to be homesick! 

Everyone Feels The Same As You 

Whatever you’re feeling, someone feels the same way and has felt the same at one point. Especially within your freshmen class, everyone is in the same boat as you- you’re not alone. 

Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone 

From activities, events, to outreaches PUC offers many opportunities for you to step out of your comfort zone. It can be scary putting yourself out there but pace yourself and open yourself up to try new things. You’ll meet people along the way and create great memories. 

The Friends You Make Last A Lifetime 

The friends you make in college will last a lifetime. From the very start of your classes, clubs, activities, and more, you’ll be bonded by this new milestone in each other’s life that will only continue as the years go by. 

Professors, Faculty, & Staff Are Here For You 

Everyone at PUC wants you to succeed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help about anything because your professors, advisor, dean, RA, and pastor are here for you. They will give you the resources you need to get you on the right path to success. 

You’ve Got This 

College is challenging, but no matter what happens, you’ve got this! Every day you will be learning, growing, and taking steps towards your goals. There will be days where stress takes over you, but keep pushing through! Remind yourself that you’ve got this! 

Important Offices To Know As A PUC Student 

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The school year has started, and for those who are new or need reminding, we want you to know some of PUC’s offices that will benefit you and your education.

Student Finance 

Financial planning for college can be overwhelming, which is one your financial counselor is committed to working with you through the process and addressing any concerns, confusion, and complications you may have.

Academic Records 

Academic Records keeps track of all your credits and is the place to add a class or drop one. If you decide to change majors or add a minor, the academic records office is where you’ll get that done. 

Student Wellness Center 

Across the main campus is the Student Wellness Center, which provides personal and career counseling and offers testing services. For counseling, qualified counselors will sit, listen, and help you with anything you’re going through. If you haven’t decided on a major, that’s okay! PUC’s career counselors will talk you through career options to find a major that would be a good fit for you.

Teaching & Learning Center 

Tutors at the Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) are here to assist you with those classes that need extra attention. TLC offers small group and one-on-one tutoring sessions, a writing lab; and makes accommodations for those with learning disabilities. If you’re a student veteran, PUC’s key task force members will work with you to make your transition to college life as smooth as possible.

Academic Advisor 

Your academic advisor is a valuable resource to you- whether it involves school, jobs, internships, or even life in general. With work and internships, they’ll connect you with people they know, and from there, you’ll continue to network and get your foot in the door. Your academic advisor wants you to succeed just as much as you do, so let them assist you in any way possible.

These are just five resourceful offices to familiarize yourself with. You might find other offices of use as the school year goes by. You can always check the campus map to know where each building is located. 

Five Ways To Make The Most Of Your Dorm Life 

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Moving into a dorm can be a big adjustment for students. With some having it be their first time away from home and being in a new environment, moving into a dorm can be nerve-racking. Have no fear- because, at PUC, we make sure you settle in nicely and feel comfortable in your home away from home. 

Build A Relationship With Your Roommate 

It is so important that you build a good relationship with your roommate. It’s okay if you’re not best friends, as long as you have mutual respect. If something bothers you, try not to be scared or shy to talk about it. Your roommate might not even know there’s a problem, so bring it up with them. 

Get to Know Your RA and Dean 

Your RA is a source of help, comfort, and friendship. Some of their duties are to make sure you settle in well, do daily check-ins, and help resolve conflict. Just like your RA, your dean will always be there for you. They want you to feel at home, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them about anything.

Go To Dorm Events 

The RA’s and deans work so hard to make dorm life the best it can be for their residents. They host events, such as movie nights, holiday parties, and have weekly dorm worship. They also invite other dorms to certain events, so this is a chance for you to meet more people and make more friends. 

Know Your Neighbors 

Whether you have suitemates or not, it’s still good to know who your neighbors are. You never know what things you might have in common or could even be in the same class. What’s nice about dorming is that you get to live with your friends. You can easily meet to study together, get help on something, borrow each other’s clothes, or just hangout. 

Make Your Room Comfy

It’s essential to make your dorm room fit your comfort needs. Bring some of your personal items from home to make your room feel homey. Make your bed as cozy as you can and add decor to bring your room to life. With having new living spaces, make it the space that makes you feel more comfortable being away from home. 

Questions To Ask Your Future Roommate 

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If you haven’t met your roommate yet or would like to know more about them, we put together a list of questions to ask your future roommate as you prepare to live together.

What’s your sleeping schedule like? Asking about their sleeping schedule will let you know if it works out with your sleeping schedule. If you’re a light sleeper, ask if they snore, sleep talk, or stay up past midnight studying. 

Are there any rules you want to establish before moving in? During this process, be open-minded and considerate, and find solutions where you both can be happy. 

What’s your schedule like? Comparing class and work schedules will let you know if you have classes together, when they need to wake up, and when you can have the room to yourself.

How do you like to study? Like asking about their schedule, their study patterns give you an idea of where they get work done and how long they stay up at night. If one or both of you likes to study in your room, respect each other’s study habits and space. 

Do you take showers in the morning or/and at night? You might not think this is a relevant question, but it is to some people. Let’s say you’re ready to hop into the shower and get ready for the day but can’t because it’s occupied. The same goes for going to bed. It’s a simple question, so just ask. 

How organized or clean do you like to be? Even though you two have separate sides of the room, be considerate of how you tidy your space. If you keep your room clean, it might be hard to live with someone who doesn’t.

Do you have any allergies? Note their allergies or other health issues. This will keep you alert if you want to share food or if they need medical attention. 

What are your pet peeves? Get those pet peeves out in the open. You don’t know if you have a habit that could be your roommate’s pet peeve or vice versa. 

How do you feel about having friends over? See if you both are on the same page about having people over. No one likes to be uncomfortable in their own space.

What appliances are you planning on bringing? Check if they plan to purchase a fridge or microwave- so you don’t double on appliances. This could also bring up the question if they’re okay sharing items. 

What do you enjoy doing? Their hobbies, passions, and interests give you a sense of who they are and help you learn if you share similar interests.

What are your favorite foods? Food is always something to bond over. Knowing their favorite foods can help you figure out which restaurants you can possibly go to together or cook together. 

What kind of music and shows do you like? A basic question that lets you know more about your roommate and find something you both have in common. They can also introduce you to new music and shows too! 

It’s okay if you’re a bit nervous to ask some of these questions. Remember to keep an open mind and be considerate of their feelings and opinions. Having a roommate is a new experience, and these questions will help you get to know each other better.

Four Things To Do Before Starting Classes at PUC

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With the fall quarter beginning soon at PUC, we wanted to remind you of four things you must do before classes start.

Finalize Classes

Make sure you’re registered for all your classes. If you are on a waiting list, want to change your schedule, or have questions about a class- contact your academic advisor or enrollment counselor, or call the records office at (707) 965-6673 or email them at records@puc.edu.

Write Down Your Schedule

Once you’ve finalized your schedule- write it down in your planner or your notes app to remember and later memorize. Include what time the class is, the name of the instructor, the classroom number, and the building.

Locate Classes 

Start familiarizing yourself with the campus by checking out our campus map– this will help you know where each of your classes is located and how to get to each one. 

Make Sure You Have Enough School Supplies 

From writing utensils to notebooks, have all the school supplies you need before heading off to school. If you’re taking a math class, make sure you have the right calculator. Buy notecards or post-its if those are useful to your exam preparation.

We can’t wait to have you all back on campus! Don’t hesitate to reach out to your academic advisor, enrollment counselor, or even your professors, if you have any questions about your classes. 

How To Know You’re Pursuing The Right Major

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Many college students graduate with a degree that they initially weren’t majoring in when beginning college. Switching majors is common for students to do because as you grow into adulthood, your interests and passions change. Here’s how to know if you’re pursuing the right major. 

Know Why You Chose Your Major 

Clearly know why you chose your major. Are you sincerely passionate about it and want to make a living from it? Did you choose it for yourself or to please others? Knowing why you chose your major will give you that boost of motivation during those long nights of studying and when you feel stressed. If you need to, write down the reasons why you picked that major. 

Picture Your Future 

Picture your future- what do you see? Do you see yourself happy working the career you chose? If you do, fantastic! If you don’t, think about changing course and heading down another career path. Ask yourself what type of job you’d be good at and would enjoy doing every day. That’ll help you figure out what to major in. 

Think of Your Interests & Skills

Thinking about your interests and skills helps figure out what your strengths are and what career you can make out of them. A work environment that fits your skills, interests, and personality will allow you to feel fulfillment in your career and grant you more success.  

It’s completely okay to be confused about what you want to study or whether or not you chose the right major. We understand that this process can be tough, which is why PUC has various programs for you to choose from. Your options and opportunities are endless here.