Get the Academic Support You Need
Student Success Center in Noss Hall
As a PennWest California or Global Online student, you can take advantage of The Student
Success Center—Noss Hall, a centralized campus academic resource for all students,
including one-on-one training, workshops, or individualized support tailored to meet
your needs.
Compass Program
The Compass program is designed for new students identified as those who would benefit
from academic support from the very start. Students are notified of their participation
through their acceptance letter from PennWest California. During the summer, students
receive additional information about the program and meet with their Student Success
Center leaders. Throughout the fall semester, students meet with their Student Success
Center leaders and attend workshops to strengthen areas including, but not limited
to, proper note-taking, the development of study skills, and strengthening writing
and speaking skills.
Mentoring Program
The Peer Mentoring Program is designed to help new students with their transition
into PennWest California. The program assigns first-semester freshmen and transfer
students with current students who have volunteered to be peer mentors. Students are
often asked to complete a profile and are matched with current students based on hometown,
interests, activities, and primary major of study. The peer mentor serves as a support
and resource person who provides information, encouragement, and guidance during the
student’s first year at PennWest California. For more information on peer mentoring,
contact mentoring@pennwest.edu.
More Resources in Student Success
Even the highest-achieving students may need academic assistance at some time during college. The Writing Center, Tutoring Center and Supplemental Instruction office offer no-cost assistance designed to help students perform at their academic best.
Stay on track with Starfish
Starfish is an online software tool that provides students with a central location to connect to the people and services that can help students stay on the path to success. Starfish will automatically provide students with connections to current instructors, advisers, and campus services. If students have a question or need help, they can “Raise your Hand” in Starfish. The mobile-friendly tool helps faculty, staff, and other PennWest California community members support students when help is needed. Examples include but are not limited to, how to schedule classes, identifying an academic adviser, checking faculty office hours, and so much more.