FIRST YEAR STUDIES (FYRST) ADVISING PROGRAM

The mission of the FYRST Advising Program is to personalize the first year by ensuring that, as a student, you receive a high standard of academic advising from pre-enrollment to orientation, and throughout your first year. The FYRST Advising Program will provide assistance that will help you to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to select an academic program or major that best suits your individual abilities, interests and career goals.  During your enrollment in FYRST, you will develop a more thorough understanding of your own purpose and goals in college as well as those of the University.

In order to progress satisfactorily through a degree program, you must have available not only accurate information about requirements and procedures, tailored to individual educational needs, but also a knowledgeable, caring advisor capable of guiding you toward meeting your educational and career objectives.

The faculty and staff of FYRST believe that students succeed academically by developing sound learning and success strategies and attitudes in a challenging curricular environment.

FYRST STUDENT GOALS

FYRST students will gain the following:

• A sound introduction to the expectations of higher education and to attitudes that will be helpful in their adjustment to the University;
• Accurate, timely, and courteous responses to their questions about University procedures, resources, and programs;
• Clear and accurate information regarding academic programs and how to formulate and personalize their own baccalaureate degree;
• A clear understanding of both their individual rights and responsibilities and those of the Institution;
• Belief that their academic advisors are willing to discuss with them any matter affecting their academic work;
• An appreciation for the value that a college degree has to personal growth, career opportunities, and community obligation.

STRUCTURE OF FYRST ADVISING

Declared FYRST Students:

If you have declared your major field of study you will be assigned a FYRST advisor from your major department.  Faculty from each academic department have been identified as FYRST advisors.

FYRST Exploratory Students:

If you are exploring major program options you will participate in the Exploratory Program.  Advisors from various academic departments volunteer their time to advise students in the Exploratory Program.  Each academic department has identified at least one FYRST Exploratory Advisor.