Family Weekend

First Year Experience

About First Year Experience

We realize that high school and college life are worlds apart. Through the Department of First Year Experience (FYE), new Trojans are assisted during this transitional period to be successful both academically and socially, navigate VSU's campus community, and learn VSU’s culture.

In doing so, FYE builds a strong foundation for your college journey in order to set you up for long-term success.

Mission of First Year Experience

FYE’s mission is to support and empower new students as they transition into college life by providing academic, social, and personal development resources. The department aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters student success, engagement, and retention.

Goals Of First Year Experience

Offers orientation programs to familiarize students with campus resources, academic policies, and expectations.
Connects students with academic advisors, tutors, and peer mentors.
Encourages engagement with faculty, advisors, and campus resources to support learning and achievement.
Provides workshops and courses focused on skills like time management, study techniques, and critical thinking.

Encourages students to build connections with peers, faculty, and staff to create a supportive community.
Organizes events to create a sense of belonging.
Helps students discover clubs, organizations, and other extracurricular opportunities.
Promotes involvement leadership development.

Promotes the development of independence, self-awareness, resilience, and confidence by helping students navigate challenges.
Guides students in setting personal, academic, and career goals.
Provides resources for mental health, wellness, and stress management.

Helps students understand and align with the University’s mission and values.
Builds a foundation for long-term engagement with the University.
Encourages active participation in academic and extracurricular activities that enrich their college experience.
Introduces students to culture and history of the University.

Identifies and addresses barriers to academic success.
Provides early intervention strategies to support students who may be struggling.
Ensures that students have the tools and resources to persist through graduation.
Provides the foundation for academic persistence, leadership, and lifelong learning to ensure long-term success.