What To Expect Your First Year

Your first year is a time to learn and grow. Understanding the resources available to you and maintaining good habits can help keep you on track for success. As your first year progresses, your journey will include different checkpoints along the way.

Where Are You Right Now?

My Classes Haven’t Started Yet

Get ready for your first semester and know what to take care of before day one. 

I’m in My First Eight Weeks

Build momentum, stay on track academically and get support early if you need it.

I Want To Stay on Track for the Rest of the Year

Keep moving forward with coaching, resources and planning for what’s next.

Support You Can Always Count On

As a Dallas College student, you have access to built‑in support and free resources designed to help you succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Help is always available to you, this year or later.

students in tutoring smiling

Academic Support

We offer tutoring, study help and learning resources when you need a little extra help in the classroom.

two female students looking at a notepad together and smiling

Student Care and Well-Being

Get support for life challenges that can affect your success in school.

male student sitting in front of laptop smiling

First Year Seminar Course

First-year students can benefit from Learning Frameworks, a dedicated course, and Ascender, a program that provides a strong support network.

students leaning out from behind a tree and smiling

Student Life and Engagement

Get involved, meet people and feel connected on campus.

student meeting with a success coach

Meet Your Success Coach

Every first-year student is supported by a success coach — someone who helps you navigate college, stay on track and connect to resources when questions come up.

Questions Are Part of the Process

It’s normal to feel unsure or overwhelmed at times during your first year. Asking questions and getting help early is one of the strongest habits successful students build. If you’re not sure where to go or what to do next, we’ll help point you in the right direction.

Contact Your Success Coach

Parents and Family Members family with mom and dad and two kids posing outside

Supporting a student through their first year of college can feel unfamiliar. We’ve created a dedicated space for parents and families to understand what the first year looks like, how support works and how you can help your student stay on track — while encouraging independence.

I’m a Parent or Family Member

 

 

Updated June 3, 2026