As a first-year student, you will:

• Build connections with fellow students, faculty, and staff who will support and guide you.
• Work closely with a Success Coach, your personalized mentor, for guidance and support as part of our Peer Mentorship Program.
• Explore your academic interests in a dynamic learning environment.

To help you succeed, all first-year students are required to:

• Enroll in UNIV107: Habits for Success (Fall) and UNIV107L: Learning Community (Spring) to develop essential college skills.
• Meet regularly with your Success Coach for personalized support.
• Connect with your Academic Advisor to plan your academic journey.
• Attend mandatory FYE events that enrich your experience and help build lasting relationships.

By fully engaging in FYE, you will gain the skills, connections, and confidence needed to thrive at SWAU and beyond. We’re excited to help you kickstart this exciting journey!

 

Univ107: Habits for Success

UNIV107: Habits for Success is a one-credit, one-semester required course designed to help students build the habits necessary for academic and personal success at SWAU. Through engaging lessons and practical strategies, students will develop essential skills that will support them throughout their college journey.

Throughout the course, students will explore key topics, including:

• Motivation and Goal Setting – Learn how to set meaningful goals and stay motivated to achieve them.
• Academic Advising and Choosing Your Degree – Gain insights into degree planning and making informed academic decisions.
• Using Time Wisely – Develop time management and organization skills to balance coursework and responsibilities effectively.
• Learning Preferences & Studying – Identify your learning style and discover study techniques that work best for you.
• Critical Thinking – Strengthen your ability to analyze information, solve problems, and think independently.

As part of the First-Year Experience (FYE) program, this course ensures that students have the tools and resources needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Univ107l: Learning Communities

UNIV107L: Learning Communities is a one-semester course designed specifically for first-year students to explore career paths, develop essential skills, and gain valuable insights for their academic and professional future. Through engaging sessions and workshops, students will connect with experienced faculty, guest experts, and peers in a supportive environment that encourages personal and professional growth.

In Learning Communities, students will:

• Explore Career Paths – Discover potential majors and career opportunities that align with your interests and strengths.
• Engage with Faculty & Experts – Learn from experienced professionals who provide real-world insights and guidance.
• Develop Essential Skills – Strengthen key skills such as communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.
• Gain Clarity & Confidence – Refine your academic and career goals to create a purpose-driven college experience.

As part of the First-Year Experience (FYE) program, UNIV107L: Learning Communities provides a strong foundation for students as they embark on their college journey. This course helps students start with focus, direction, and a network of support.

While SYE does not include mandatory courses, it offers valuable resources to help you continue growing academically, socially, and professionally. Through this program, you will have access to:

• A streamlined peer mentorship program – Connect with experienced students who can provide guidance, encouragement, and practical advice as you continue your college journey.
• Ongoing academic support – Receive continued assistance with study strategies, time management, and academic planning to help you stay on track.
• Opportunities for personal and professional development – Engage in workshops and events designed to enhance your leadership skills, career readiness, and overall college experience.

SYE is all about helping you stay engaged, supported, and confident as you move forward in your academic career. Whether you need guidance, encouragement, or a place to connect with peers, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s make your second year one of continued growth and success!

The Transfer Student Experience program provides the support, resources, and guidance you need to integrate into campus life and thrive in your new academic environment.

As a transfer student, you’ll have access to:

• Peer Mentorship – Connect with experienced students who can offer guidance, answer your questions, and help you navigate life at SWAU.
• Academic Assistance – Receive support through study strategies, tutoring resources, and personalized guidance from academic advisors to help you succeed.
• Campus Orientation & Tours – Get to know SWAU through dedicated orientation sessions and campus tours designed specifically for transfer students. These experiences will help you feel at home, meet faculty and staff, and learn about the many opportunities available to you.

We’re committed to ensuring that you feel welcomed, supported, and connected from day one. Whether you need academic guidance, mentorship, or a chance to build new friendships, Transfer Student Experience is here to help you make the most of your time at SWAU.

Your mentor will check in with you weekly to keep you on track and ensure you're feeling supported. Plus, you’ll have the chance to sit down for monthly one-on-one meetings where you can discuss your goals, challenges, and everything in between. Whether it’s finding your rhythm in academics or discovering all the fun activities campus has to offer, your mentor is here to help you feel confident and empowered.

Along the way, you’ll get to make lasting connections, build new friendships, and feel truly at home on campus. The Peer Mentorship Program is all about making your SWAU journey a positive and exciting experience!