Freshman Year Initiatives

18 USI has several programs designed for new students. These programs support them as they adjust and become integrated into USI’s culture and student body.

Living-Learning Communities At USI, first-year students with similar interests, goals and academic programs can be placed on designated floors within the residence halls. These living-learning communities (LLC) help students create a strong link between their lives in the residence hall and learning experiences in the classroom. Students who reside in an LLC enjoy the same amenities as other residents, yet they benefit from a different living experience. Students on the floor work together to develop a community that relates to a common theme. Themes can be selected from these topics: Global Community, Honors, Business, Education, Liberal Arts, Exploring Majors, STEM, Nursing and Health Professions. Special programs and services are available to students who select LLCs. For more information, visit USI.edu/housing/livinglearning-communities.

First Year @ USI Newsletter We only have one day for Orientation, but we have so much more information to give your student! First Year @ USI will build from his/her Orientation experience and help your student successfully transition to USI. First Year @ USI is emailed weekly over the summer and during the first six weeks of the fall semester.

At USI, first-year students with similar interests, goals and academic programs can be placed on designated floors within the residence halls. These living-learning communities (LLC) help students create a strong link between their lives in the residence hall and learning experiences in the classroom.

Welcome Week Welcome Week is your student’s first taste of being a student at USI! It is a week full of activities and events designed to help students meet one another, adjust to new surroundings and start on the right foot in their academic career at USI. All students are expected to attend the Eagle Experience activities, and all new freshmen are required to attend the UNIV 101 program on Saturday. Welcome Week details can be found at USI.edu/welcomeweek.

The Source Newsletter The Source is a great way for your student to learn about events and opportunities on campus. The Source is emailed weekly during the academic year. Students are automatically signed up to receive the newsletter through their student email address, but they can opt out at anytime by clicking unsubscribe.

Student Involvement Fair Attending the Student Involvement Fair, held during the second week of the semester, is a great way for your student to connect with other USI students and student organizations. Encourage your student to find student organizations and activities that are of interest to them.

Emerging Leaders The Emerging Leaders program offers USI freshmen the opportunity to develop leadership skills, meet fellow leaders and contribute to the University community. The program focuses on preparing individuals to succeed as student leaders so that, in subsequent years at USI, they can be active campus leaders.

For more information about the program and application process, visit USI.edu/leadership.