The Academic Advocate works with students who are experiencing academic difficulty by assisting them to develop plans for a successful semester. The Academic Advocate has many academic resources on a variety of topics related to student success; including study tips, testing tips, and time management skills. The office also has a list of external resources to empower you to complete your program at Southwestern.
Important Steps to Student Success:
- Get connected with your advisor, instructors and other students. Campus relationships are vital.
- Make attendance in class a priority! You can’t make a difference till you show up (in class or online).
- Focus on your goal of graduation.
- Reach for support, tutoring, counseling when life or class work seems too hard.
- Do your best work.
- Manage the challenges of life, don’t let them manage you!
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. SCC has a host of faculty and staff willing to go the extra mile for you.
- Keep a calendar of assignments due.
- No cell phones or Facebook in class. Your instructor is working hard on your behalf. Pay attention.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Being a Healthy Student
Strategies for Success
Multiple Choice Test Taking Tips
Time Management Tips
Managing Life’s Challenges
To make an appointment, you may reach Robin Whitley via:
Email at r_whitley@southwesterncc.edu
Phone at 828-339-4476
Office Location: Jackson Campus, Oaks Hall, Lower Level, G-13

Links for Helpful Resources:
If anyone would like to change or add an item to the following list of resources, please contact Robin Whitley at 828.339.4476 or by e-mail at r_whitley@southwesterncc.edu
Compassionate Friends - Greenville, SC • 864.288.8342
Food Pantry in Cherokee • 828.788.2132 (cell) or 828.554.6222
Good Samaritan Clinic - Jackson • 828.587.8265
Greenville, SC - Mental Health Department • 864.467.7000
Jackson County Cold Weather Shelter • 828.507.1591
Jackson County Public Housing • 828.631.2292
Jackson-Haywood Volunteer Center • 828.456.6456
Meridian - Trauma/ Disaster • 828.586.9831
Mountain Childcare Connections • 877.752.5955
New Beginnings Substance Abuse Services • 828.586.3540
Qualla Boundary Headstart • 828.497.9008
RTS Bereavement Group - Greenville, SC • 864.455.3911
Second Mile Ministries • 828.524.5913
Southwestern Child Care Resource & Referral • 828.586.5561
Swain/Qualla Safe • 828.488.6809
Sylva Clinical: Child & Family Psychology • 828.586.5555