First Year Experience Signature Programs

Body

The First Year Experience (FYE) at Saint Mary's is designed to asist in laying the foundation for academic and personal success by providing programs, support and resources to first year students.  These opportunities enhance a student's understanding of Saint Mary's academic and co-curricular programs and guide student learning through the first year.  

New Student Orientation

Providing new students and their families with information on orientation and testing dates, campus housing and medical information, and an introduction to the FYE's programs and resources.

Weekend of Welcome (WoW)

Scheduled before Fall classes begin, WoW formally welcomes incoming students to our academic and co-curricular communities through a variety of programs, social events, and academic activities.

First Year | First Six

Recognizing the first six weeks of their first semester as a crucial period for new students, the First Year l First Six initiative is designed to provide community-building opportunities. Activities planned within the first six weeks include tailgates, pool party, BBQ's and so much more!

First Year Advising Cohort (FYAC)

All new students are assigned to a First Year Advising Cohort taught by a faculty member. This faculty member becomes the student's academic advisor for the entire first year, providing the student with academic support during his or her transition to higher education. Students are most often assigned to an advising cohort based on perceived academic interests, although those who are enrolled in a specific campus program, such as the High Potential Program and the Honors Program, may be placed with an advisor representing that program. 

First Year Olympics

Organized by their residence hall, first year students compete in various recreational and athletic competitions.  First Year Olympics are usually held within the first month of the academic year.

First Year Class Elections, Associated Students  

First-year students who would like to serve as class representatives have the opportunity to run and be elected for office in the Associate Students of Saint Mary's College senate.