First-Year Experience

The First-Year Experience (FYE) is a continuation of New Student Orientation and seeks to ensure students are supported in their transition to SHU and provided the tools and resources necessary to succeed. FYE is a 10-week course facilitated by a SHU staff member and a student FYE assistant during the first semester at SHU. With small classes and hands-on-activities, FYE encourages self-exploration, active engagement and understanding of life as a college student.

FYE focuses on the development and transition of the student through intentional opportunities for engagement. We are committed to promoting belonging and resilience while identifying development and growth mindset throughout the first year at SHU and beyond.

In addition to the weekly classes, students will:

• Attend campus activities, athletic events to service opportunities and on-campus lectures
• Meet with your FYE instructor and FYE Assistant
• Participate in out-of-class events and activities specifically for first year students.

FYE Course Learning Outcomes

By the time the FYE course is completed, students will:

• Begin to establish a network of community and support that includes peers faculty, staff and other resources available to them
• Understand the significance of accepting and adapting positively to change
• Learn and apply skills to engage in healthy and positive behavior toward peers in challenging situations through empathy and civility
• Develop an appreciation for and participate in building inclusive and diverse community, friend groups and relationships