The FYRST Seminar is a one-credit course designed to help bridge the transition between high school and college. It is designed especially to enhance the academic, social, and personal integration of new students by focusing on the following transition topics:
- time management
- active learning strategies study skills
- test preparation
- use of campus technology
- academic advising
- majors and careers
- exploration
- diversity and relationship issues
- healthy choices
FYRST Seminar provides students with an opportunity to participate in the University community by utilizing campus programs, services and technology.
FYRST Advisement
All academic advisement of new first-year students is coordinated and directed by FYRST. If a new first-year student has declared a major, advisement is provided by a faculty member selected from the major department. If no major has been declared, the student participates in the exploratory program and is advised by a faculty member in the Exploratory Studies & Academic Progress Department. A student's progression through FYRST is assisted by a FYRST adviser; however, it is the student's responsibility to see that he/she meets all requirements of their academic program so that upon completion of the first year, the student has attained the minimum number of credits, the specific courses and the minimum GPA required by the major program. Through setting high goals and committing to meet those goals, first-year students will make a successful transition to The Rock.
Learning Community Clusters and FYRST Seminar
Learning Community Clusters includes a FYRST Seminar for the purpose of improving students' academic excellence and social integration. This seminar creates an educational environment that promotes student success. Reduce the stress of transitioning to college life by joining Learning Community and FYRST Seminar that provides academic and social advantages. By enrolling in the same classes, students make new friends easily, form study groups, participate in class discussions, and become engaged with their professors. Research has shown that the more a student connects to the University, the more successful they are in their college experience. Our research shows that by enhancing a student's sense of community and involvement, the FYRST Seminar and Learning Community contribute to higher rate of student success.
