Canceled classes: now or never?

According to a peer review from the Association of American Colleges and Universities, “Programs and initiatives commonly considered to be a part of an institution’s first-year experience efforts include, recruitment and admissions efforts; new student orientation programs; welcome week activities; first-year seminars; academic advising; academic support centers; supplemental instruction; undergraduate research initiatives; and learning communities.”

Certain institutions are making FYE a requirement to receive benefits, such as the California Promise grant.

All College Promise students must be a part of the FYE Program at Los Angeles City College, according to their website.

Other colleges offer the California Promise grant to community college students who meet the requirements. Making FYE a mandatory program at Pierce for at least the first year can significantly improve students’ awareness of academic policy.

The FYE program aims to help students who want to improve their academic growth through a clear path.

According to results of a national survey from Ithaka S+R, “Institutions with an FYE program are more likely to offer programming that is targeted specifically to subgroups of underserved students, including low-income, low-performing, and high-achieving students.” newsroom.roundupnews@gmail.com

It could even be possible to hold more FYE workshops or New Student Counseling Groups on Fridays; a day when not many classes are in session. It could make a difference for students who have no idea how to pursue their academic goals and could give insight about transferring to a four-year institution.

Making FYE mandatory or more accessible for first-year students can help boost student success rates or transfer rates among students who wish for extra educational support.