Be Ready

Prepare, and get the most from your classes.

In this section:

What to Expect

First day preparations can set you on the right path to success! Goto class with an open mind. Do not skip the first class.

Your First Day

Success Tips

Check out the Success Guide and short video below for tips to get ready for your first semester and beyond.

Success Guide

Your Pre-semester Checklist

The Summer Before College Checklist

Getting Books

Textbooks can be rather pricey. But you can save money by buying them used, renting them, or by taking zero-cost textbook (OER) classes.

Search for OER Classes

💰 New HS Grads: Up to $1,200 Textbook Vouchers

Students who graduated high school the same year they start attending SMC qualify for the SMC Promise. One of the perks is getting textbook vouchers by as much as $1,200 per year to the SMC Bookstore! There is a catch though...

Must qualify for the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) fee waiver
Up to: $500 during Fall & Spring semesters; and $100 during Winter & Summer sessions

Find more at the SMC Promise website.

Tech Loans: Chromebooks

Need a Chromebook? Reach out to your counselor or instructor to let them know. Once approved you'll get an email with instructions on how to pick one up.

Check Other Tech Resources

Study Prep

How you study may differ for each class you take, your learning style, etc. We think we know the formula to class success, but let us know what works for you! Check out these tips.

Study Skills Tips