Welcome to the First Year Experience (FYE)

The First Year Experience is a unique array of programming designed specifically for first-year LAS students to facilitate the transition into the academic life of an urban research university. The various programs of the FYE are designed to meet students' differing needs and interests and above all to create a sense of community. New freshmen are strongly encouraged to participate in one or more of the offerings, which are sponsored by the office of the Dean.

Town Hall Meetings:

A unique opportunity for you and your parents to meet the new Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and other administrators and faculty who play a pivotal role in your UIC experience. Come find out more about the College and have your questions answered. Pizza, soft drinks, and fellowship make these gatherings a must-attend for all new freshmen.

Dates and Sign-up Information available at   www.las.uic.edu/info/townhall/

Mandatory Freshman Advising:

Mandatory Freshman advising is designed to make sure you see an advisor in both semesters of your first year at UIC, so that your progress towards your major and degree is as smooth as possible. You will be contacted through your UIC e-mail account to inform you of when you can/should schedule your appointment with an LAS advisor. Failure to meet with an advisor will keep you from registering for classes for the next semester. Students in Success in the City will receive individual advising from their instructor for the course. Of course, you can call (312)996-3366 and schedule an appointment at any point during the semester, or stop by the reception desk on the 3^rd floor of UH.

Success in the City (SITC):

This one credit hour course is designed to facilitate the often bumpy transition between high school and college. In a small group setting with other first semester students, participants move through topics such as: academic strategies, negotiating the City of Chicago and its intellectual resources, accessing campus resources, understanding UIC's unique diversity, and developing academic strategies. You can enroll in this course, LAS 110, via the Web Self Service System. Class meets once per week for ten weeks.

Writing from the Core (CoWrite):

This program pairs a General Education requirement or prerequisite with a Writing required course -- you get full credit for both -- creating a two-way exchange of knowledge and approaches. The courses share a number of texts and concepts, so you'll grasp the material even better through reinforced learning between the two courses. You'll work with award-winning teachers, and really get to know your professors through the small writing sections and more informal discussions with your lecture professor. You'll have a instant community of first-year peers, since the same students in your small Writing section will also be in your larger lecture course. Finally, you'll have a powerful support network, with an LAS advisor, two Writing Center peer tutors, and a UIC librarian assigned specifically to your small writing section.
Additional details are available at   www.las.uic.edu/info/cowrite/

Note:

FYE Program reminders will be sent to all Fall 2007 freshmen through the UIC email system. Students should be sure that their email is set up to allow mass communications from UIC. If you have questions or would like more information about any First Year Experience programs, please contact Bill Gallaga, 312-355-3448.