5 Things to do This Summer to Prepare for Fall Semester

We know summer hasn’t even started yet, but we promise it is never too early to prepare for the fall semester! By being prepared, you have a better chance of getting the more desirable courses and class times (hello 10 am!), getting needed appointments set before the rush starts, and knowing where you are going before the first day. 

The first and most important thing is ensuring that your enrollment is complete! Are all of your documents in? Do you have any required placement tests? Did you finish the new student orientation videos? You can check the status of these items in your accessECC account or by calling the admissions office at 847-214-7385.   

Second, be sure your FAFSA is completed and submitted. This is very important because it determines how much financial aid or grants you may receive, giving you a clearer understanding of your tuition costs. There are financial aid experts available to talk to if you need assistance completing the FAFSA or to answer any questions you have about additional assistance. 

Third, before you start registering for any course you feel like, meet with an academic advisor to put a plan in place. Advisors can help you choose the courses that best suit your needs. Don’t worry, you can still take electives that sound super fun to you!  

Fourth, get your supplies in order. Hit up the school supply aisle or the ECC bookstore for needed supplies like notebooks, calculators, textbooks, ECC swag, and more. They will know what additional materials you may need for your courses, so bring the course numbers with you. 

Finally, come explore campus before the first day! We are here Monday through Thursday in the summer. You can pop into Student Life to see what clubs we have, meet a wellness professional, check out the available student jobs on campus, or just wander around. If you can’t make it before the first day of the fall semester, take a virtual tour of campus or check out the map to familiarize yourself a bit.  

Elgin Community College is truly a community. There are staff, faculty, and administrators who are here to help you succeed, show you where a classroom is, or be a friendly face on campus. We can’t wait for you to be a part of it all. Register now at elgin.edu/startnow.