Vail Valley at Edwards New Student Checklist

Tips for getting prepared for your first semester at CMC

STEP 1: Attend a Step 1 Session for New Students

  Sessions are also offered to new students by appointment at CMC Vail Valley. Call 970-569-2900 to register for one!

• Step 1 is required for students who are new to CMC and have less than 15 college credits or are planning on taking courses for transfer.
• After attending a Step 1 session, you will have:
  • An understanding of admission requirements, registration details, and paperwork.
  • Information on where to find class information and how to register for courses.
  • Knowledge of what college placement is what it means.
  • An overview of CMC programs, degrees, and certificates.

Information about resources like financial aid, counseling & advising, and campus life.

  Complete your application for admission. Do this before or after attending a Step 1 session.

  Get started with Financial Aid.

• Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Check out scholarships offered through the CMC Foundation. The application deadline for most scholarships is March 1.

  STEP 2: College Placement

  Get placed into college-level courses.

• In order to take college-level courses at CMC, you are required to show proficiency at the college level in reading, English and math.
• You can demonstrate college-level proficiency several ways:
  • ACT or SAT scores (if taken within 5 years), or
  • Successful completion of college-level math or English courses, or
  • Take the Accuplacer.

  Meet with a college counselor.

• Review results of assessment scores in order to plan coursework.
• You can get help with planning your semester courses, tracking your progress toward graduation, and more!
• Call to make an appointment: 970-569-2900.

  Register for classes!

• View the course schedule to see credit and lifelong learning offerings.
• Pay attention to early registration and open registration dates.

  Textbooks are included with the Learning Materials Program. Learn more about CMC's Textbooks/Learning Materials Program.
  STEP 3: Attend Orientation
  New Student Orientation

• New Student Orientation is for students who have not taken previous college courses, although all new students are welcome.
• Sessions are offered the week before each semester begins.
• Call 970-569-2900 with any questions and to sign up for a session.
• At Orientation, you will get the opportunity to:
  • Use Basecamp to use student tools such as student email, WebAdvisor, and Canvas.
  • Become familiarized with the Vail Valley at Edwards campus and resources available on campus and college-wide.
  • Interact with campus faculty and staff, and meet peers and other students.

  Online Learning Orientation

• If you are in a distance learning course (web, teleweb, or IVS) this orientation is meant for you!
• Find resources at the Online Learning homepage.
• Two sessions are offered before each semester begins.
• Call 970-569-2900 for dates and to RSVP to the distance learning orientation.

  STEP 4: Student Success

  Get tutoring help. Writing and math labs are held every week on campus.

  Find out about Student Support Services (SSS).

• SSS is a FREE, federally funded student-assistance program specifically designed to help participants with tutoring, financial aid assistance, career advice, and 4-year transfer information.
• Contact Heather O'Malley at 970-569-2938 with any questions and to see if you qualify.