Academics

First-Year Experience (FYE)

Discover What’s Possible With ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s First-Year Experience

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ's First-Year Experience (FYE) is a cornerstone of the University's commitment to supporting new students, reflecting the goals outlined in ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ 100, the University's strategic plan. Through four powerful FYE components, you'll build connections, discover your strengths, and feel right at home in the academic community from the very beginning.

FYE Learning Outcomes

  • Adjust confidently to college life with guidance and support from caring faculty.
  • Form connections with your instructor and classmates in a smaller, more personal, setting with students who are going through the same transition as you.
  • Feel a sense of community and belonging as you begin your ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ journey.
  • Cultivate your intellectual curiosity by exploring new ideas and questions that matter to you.
  • Build skills in analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving that will serve you in every major.
  • Strengthen your ability to communicate – whether in writing, speaking, or creative work.

First up

First-Year Course: Your Guide to a Great Start

Get started with a first-year course designed to help you discover the main goals we’re excited for you to reach along your journey.

Learn More

Annual Presidential Symposium

"The Beauty of ..."

The annual Symposium invites faculty, students, and guest speakers to dive into a thought-provoking theme. From the elegance of a mathematical proof to the awe of space exploration, explore how beauty shapes our passion for learning. You are expected to attend at least one session, and an RSVP is required.

VIEW SCHEDULE AND RSVP

Together in Community Success

Grow Through Community, Succeed Through Connection

From your first days on campus, you will find events that help you grow and meet people. You are required to attend one Academic Welcome in September, ideally from your school or department, along with one student-focused event, program, or activity of your choice.


Your attendance at events matter. Please be sure to scan the QR code and check in at each event you attend.

Learn how the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Writing Center supports your success

Fall 2025 FYE Courses

First-Year Connections Seminars and Clusters
BBA 100*Business and Society: Foundations for Professional Development
DRAM 004Freshman Theater Laboratory
HUHC 011Culture and Expression
HUHC 013C&E Fall Humanities
MUSB 150ASpecial Topics in Music Business
NOAH 002American English Writing Skills I
NOAH 003NOAH Mathematics I
NOAH 006NOAH Freshman Orientation I
NUR 011Professional Nursing Seminar I
UNIV 101University 101
WSC 001Writing Studies and Composition I

*Please note: This is a business course.

Explore Your FYE Course Options

Discover descriptions of FYE courses designed to appeal to students with a wide variety of majors and interests.

First-Year Connections Seminars and Clusters

If any of these courses catch your eye, the University advising team can assist you with registration during Pride Advising at orientation. More registration details are also available at the link above.

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ 100 lays out goals and direction. Explore it.

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ 100

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to do this?

Yes. These four activities are part of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s First-Year Experience (FYE) expectations for all new students. Your signature FYE course introduces you to campus learning in a supportive setting, and the out-of-class events help you connect with the broader University community. Some instructors may include one or more of these out-of-class expectations (such as the Presidential Symposium) in your course grade. Even if they are not graded, you are still expected to participate. These events are designed with your success in mind—and they’re often fun and inspiring, too.

What if I can’t fit one of the expectations into my schedule?

We know that sometimes things come up—class conflicts, work shifts, or other responsibilities. If you cannot attend one of the required events:

  • Communicate early.
    • For symposium questions, contact the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Cultural Center at HOFCULCTR@hofstra.edu or 516-463-5669.
    • For all other event questions, contact the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement (OSLE) at OSLE@hofstra.edu.
  • Alternatives may be available. In many cases, a make-up opportunity (like attending a different session or submitting a reflection based on recorded content) can be arranged.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute. Planning ahead gives you the best chance to meet the expectation in a way that works for you.

The FYE team is here to support your success—please don’t hesitate to ask for help navigating your schedule.

For additional information, please contact the Center for University Advising:
Room 101 Memorial Hall, South Campus
Phone: 516-463-6770 or 516-463-7222
Email: Advising@hofstra.edu