To be successful in a university, you need to be fully informed and make wise decisions about the courses you register for, university policies, and additional resources. Always remember that North Park University wants you to succeed. That means that if you are having any difficulties or have any questions whose answers you are unsure about, there are university resources available to help you get assistance or find answers. This is true of both academic and personal issues that could potentially disrupt your university experience. Never hesitate to go looking for help or information—but realize that usually you have to take the first step.

The academic catalog is a great source of many kinds of information; be sure you know where to find it online. The university’s website is the second place to look for help. Students are often surprised to see how much information is available online, including information about college programs, offices, special assistance programs, and so on, as well as helpful information such as studying tips, personal health, financial help, and other resources. Take some time to explore your North Park's website and learn what is available—this could save you a lot of time in the future if you experience any difficulty. The following are some of the resources North Park University available for online students:

Academic advising: This office helps you choose courses and plan your program or degree. You should have a personal meeting at least once every term.
Counseling: This office helps with personal problems, including health, stress management, interpersonal issues, and so on.
Financial aid: If you are presently receiving financial aid or may qualify for assistance, you should know this office well.
Tutoring or skill centers: The title of this resource varies among colleges, but most have special places where students can go for additional help for their courses.
Writing Center: The North Park University Writing Center provides free assistance to all undergraduate writers through our drop-in center and through a writing fellows program that pairs students in Core Curriculum courses with trained Writing Advisors.
Library: This is your go-to place for help with research and citation.
Career Development and Internships: This center can help you find a student job or internship, plan for your career after graduation, and receive career counseling.
Office for students with disabilities: This office may provide various services to help students with disabilities adapt within the university environment.
Specialized offices for student populations: These may include an office supporting students who speak English as a second language, adult students returning to college, international students, Seminary students, and veterans of the armed services.

Everyone needs assistance at some time—you should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help. Remember that a part of your tuition and fees are going to these offices, and you have every right to take advantage of them.

This reading is excerpted and edited from "College Success," adapted by The Saylor Foundation under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 License.