Student Success is the Cornerstone for the Next Generation’s Achievements

When education is becoming a struggle, it may be difficult to ask for help. Whether it has been a struggle to make the grade or financial aid has been unavailable, there are always things to gather clarity on. There might be times when it seems like there are no answers to the most pressing questions. The Student Success Office at PVCC is the place with all the answers.

In a recent interview with Director of Student Success and Retention, David Lerman, he said the Student Success Office provides help and support by any means necessary; whether it is through classroom visits, chatting during virtual office hours, or the college’s texting service. There are even instances where faculty members refer students to their offices following alerts on the Navigate Student tool. For students who struggle with keeping up, it may be wise to take Student Development (SDV), better known as College Success Skills.

Lerman said, “Students who contact our office are often struggling with home life, work life, and their education. For many, issues of anxiety and stress can be overwhelming at the best of times and these days of civil unrest, coronavirus, loss of employment and other issues have made things much tougher for many.” 

So if anyone has been affected by COVID-19 closures and stress, it is safe to contact the Student Success Office for all questions about getting back on track with making education a first priority. If there are services that a student requires that cannot be addressed by the Student Success office, they do not hesitate to refer students to another PVCC service that can.

For those who are wondering about the difference between the Student Success Office and an academic adviser, Lerman was able to provide some clarity to their individual roles for students. Students who strictly need advising should work directly with the staff in the Admissions and Advising Center. Any student who cannot pinpoint the source of their academic troubles should contact the Student Success Office to explore all the services offered to clear up the hindrances that are keeping them from achieving their goals.

The Student Success Office has established a line of communication for every student. Whether it is easiest for someone to talk over the phone, Zoom, or by text, there is an option available. Any Zoom calls would require an appointment made through the Navigate Student tool on the MyPVCC student portal or by calling 434-961-6581. According to Lerman, “Students should reach out to our office when they feel as if they need support. We see and talk with some students on a weekly basis. Others we may only talk with on a monthly basis or just a few times over the course of a semester.” 

According to the additional information provided by David Lerman, “Most students who start at a community college do not earn a degree.” In another statement, he went as far as to mention how much of a life changing accomplishment it could be for a student and even their children to complete college. PVCC as a community offers various resources to ensure education is not just treated as an option. “Education isn’t just a vocational goal; it’s also very much a mindset.” said Lerman. 

Lerman concluded by saying “Personal change and growth are difficult and take time. Our office is committed to helping students make those changes.” When it is the middle of the semester and no class seems to be going as planned, the Student Success Office will be able to guide anyone through.