First-Year Experience

The mission of the First-Year Experience at LSU Shreveport is to create a comprehensive program that supports incoming students in their transition to college, promotes learning and engagement, enhances persistence, and encourages active participation in the academic and social life of the university.

PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Provide a smooth transition from high school
• Introduce first-year students to campus resources and topics related to academic success, personal well-being, community awareness, and professional development
• Familiarize first-year students with college expectations, requirements, and processes
• Provide the support and stimulation of a learning community of peers
• Help students discover the relevance of academic experiences
• Engage students in activities that build connections, promote personal growth, encourage community involvement, and set them on a path toward career readiness
• Increase student persistence from first year to second year

FYE PROGRAMS:

• US@LSUS: Prepares incoming first-year students for a successful transition to college, providing training on accessing essential technology and resources, finding classes, and finalizing last-minute business, all while building community with your personal FYE team.
  
  
• College Student Inventory (CSI): A survey completed by new first-year students that assists academic success and personal development, allowing your Student Success Team to tailor resources and strategies to meet your individual needs effectively.
  
  
• First-Year Convocation: An event designed to officially welcome new first-year students into the academic community and introduce them to the university’s traditions, values, and expectations.
  
  
• First-Year Seminar: A required course aimed at supporting first-year students as they adapt to the various changes needed for academic and personal success. Learning objectives include fostering a sense of community, understanding university expectations, acquiring and applying academic, professional, and personal skills, and facilitating career exploration.
  
  
• First-Year Peer Leader Program: Offers dedicated upper-division students the opportunity to serve first-year students, providing leadership, support, and resources to help them navigate their transition to college. Peer Leaders develop meaningful relationships with students, facilitate weekly support activities, and deliver updates on campus events and academic deadlines. They also offer mentoring and coaching outside of class, collaborate with faculty and staff, and participate in committees focused on enhancing the First-Year Experience. Through this program, Peer Leaders gain leadership skills, contribute to a positive campus community, and play a vital role in promoting student success during their crucial first year.

FIRST-YEAR SEMINAR COURSE

STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Goal 1 – Increase Connections, Culture, and Community to foster a sense of belonging

To foster a sense of community and belonging for students by establishing relationships with peers, faculty, and staff on campus and in the broader community through various activities and events.

• Goal 2 - Develop Transferable Skills to use in other classes and professional settings

To develop transferable skills such as time management, problem-solving, communication, and leadership to help students navigate personal, academic, and professional challenges and opportunities.

• Goal 3 – Explore Career and Majors

To assist students in exploring and selecting a major and provide resources and support for their career exploration through high-impact practices, co-curricular activities, and career services.

• Goal 4 – Build new academic skills

To develop academic skills such as effective study habits, critical thinking, and effective writing skills to help students meet their personal academic goals and succeed in their courses.