Your First-Year Experience at 51ԹϺ
The First Year Experience (FYE) is a collection of people, resources, and programs that are designed to help you set yourself up for a successful transition to 51ԹϺ. The program will help you navigate your first year of college so that you connect with people and campus happenings.
Becoming a 51ԹϺ student is a huge deal. We recognize that you’ve accomplished so much to get here, and we’re committed to helping you create a college experience that lives up to those accomplishments. The best part is that you get to customize and create a First Year Experience that works for you.
Based on what we know from research and experience, here are five key areas we recommend you focus on to maximize your First Year Experience: connect, explore, grow, thrive, and believe. Read more below about the programs, people, and resources here to help you do just that.
You’re not in this alone! Connect with the people on your “FYE Success Team” for guidance, support, and answers to all your questions.
- Learn about life at 51ԹϺ from your Orientation Leader during New Student Orientation
- Meet with your First Year Advisor to stay on track academically
- Talk to your Peer Mentor to learn tips & tricks from their own student experiences
- Build community in your First Year Seminar
Create memories and build leadership skills by getting involved and experiencing campus traditions and events. 51ԹϺ has so much to offer as you discover more about yourself, your interests and explore academic and social opportunities in the campus and surrounding community!
- Launch your FYE at 51ԹϺ Creates
- Kick-off the semester with Welcome Weeks events and programs, including 51ԹϺ Premier
- Get Involved with campus life to enrich your college experience
Set yourself up for long-term success and grow toward goals that matter to you.
- Enhance your academic experience with resources like coaching, tutoring, and supplemental instruction at the Academic Success Center
- It’s never too early to jumpstart your career development with 51ԹϺ Career Services
- Research is for everyone. Dive into opportunities with the Office of Undergraduate Research
Thrive at 51ԹϺ by managing your wellness and reflecting on your identities and values.
- Balance your health and well-being with free or low-cost resources in the Student Wellness Center
- Get personalized tips and tools to take care of your health with
- Reflect on your identity, goals and have meaningful conversations about 51ԹϺ’s Common Read
- Contribute to a diverse and inclusive campus environment that provides affirming resources and services for everyone
Celebrate your accomplishments, and know that your FYE is just the beginning of an incredible college experience!
- Honor milestones in your FYE by attending the First 100 Days Celebration in December and the Welcome to Spring recognition event in January
- Rise up into your second year experience! Attend Rebels Rising Up Day in spring & get ready to join Rebels R.I.S.E. in your sophomore year.
Engagement and Support
As a new student at 51ԹϺ, there are many opportunities to connect and engage with the 51ԹϺ community. All opportunities are designed to support your goals and what is important to you in your educational journey.
To maximize your experience, get and stay connected with online, in person and academic opportunities including those shared below. We are here to support you in creating a path personalized just for you. Do not hesitate to contact the FYE Team to learn more about your opportunities in your first year at 51ԹϺ.
Free Online Success Guide
In the , there are tips and tricks for making the most of the resources and people on campus as you work towards your academic and personal goals. This guide will offer practical ways to connect with key relationships in your first year to support your success including academic advisors, peer mentors, faculty, and staff members across campus.
Personalize Your FYE and Qualify for the FYE Connection Award
We have created a menu of experiences to help make your FYE meaningful to you. The events featured on this menu are hosted by units across 51ԹϺ and can help you build a network that supports your goals.
By personalizing your engagement with the FYE menu and network, you can qualify to win the FYE Connection Award Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded two times a year at the end of the fall and spring semesters!
Peer Mentoring Program
As part of your First Year Experience (FYE) you have the opportunity to connect with a peer mentor. Peer mentoring is a campus-wide initiative designed to support first-year student success. Peer mentors are also undergraduate students who can share their personal experiences and provide guidance and support. Peer mentoring programs pair first-year students with a more experienced peer to help them navigate the transition to 51ԹϺ.
Summer Connect Series
Our Summer Connect Series offers newly admitted students the opportunity to engage with campus resources through virtual presentations from various departments. In addition to these informative sessions, we host in-person experiences like an ice cream social and an enrollment lab to support students with registration and connect them to the 51ԹϺ community.
For the full Summer Connect Series schedule and other events, or visit our Events page.