///////

FIRST Program

Your FIRST Academic Experience

The Fully Integrated Resource, Support and Transition (FIRST) Program is a community of students who have been admitted to the University of Dayton, but whose prior academic records have not met all of the University's admission standards. The University believes these students can succeed with some additional support during their first year.

The FIRST Program provides students holistic learning support designed to help them find their places within the UD community and achieve academic success.

Fast Facts

100%

of FIRST students are guaranteed an SI course

1-on-1

academic coaching is part of the first year

FIRST Program Overview

Benefits

Students in the FIRST Program:

  • Enroll in at least one course with academic support, such as tutoring, Supplemental Instruction and writing support.
  • Develop time management and study skills.
  • Are part of a community of learners who support each other as they learn to navigate University processes and expectations.
  • Build their resumes and digital professional presences by earning a micro-credential in resilience.

Requirements

Students in the FIRST Program must complete the following requirements.

UDI 175: The Art and Science of Learning

Students are required to enroll in, attend and pass UDI 175: The Art and Science of Learning. In UDI 175, students explore their past experiences with learning, develop academic and professional goals, and develop skills and strategies to help them achieve their goals.

Introduction to the University Course

All first-year students take Introduction to the University. In this course, students are introduced to University services, including academic support services (e.g., tutoring, Write Place, Supplemental Instruction), disability services, Student Health Center and Counseling Center. This course also introduces students advising, declaring a major and registering for courses.

Course with Supplemental Instruction

Students are required to enroll in at least one course with Supplemental Instruction. SI is a peer-facilitated learning support program in which an SI leader attends class with students and then holds two one-hour review sessions per week. During review sessions, students practice concepts, review key terms and ideas, and have the opportunity to ask questions about course material.

FIRST Program Kickoff

Students are required to attend the FIRST Program Kickoff during the first week of the fall semester. At kickoff, students will have the chance to meet their fellow FIRST students, the instructor for UDI 175 and the other FIRST Program support staff. They will also get a walk-through of the program requirements and expectations.

Parents are also invited to participate in orientation with their student. There will be events for parents and students to attend together, as well as events for parents only.

FIRST Program Welcome Back Meeting

Students are required to attend the FIRST Program Welcome Back Meeting in the first week of spring semester. The Welcome Back meeting is an opportunity for students to reconnect with each other, learn about the events that will take place in spring semester and get an overview of what to expect during the second semester.

Expectations

FIRST students are also expected to engage with various academic and student life opportunities.

Academic Support Resources

Students are expected to make use of at least one academic support resource (e.g., tutoring, Supplemental Instruction and writing support) on a regular basis during both semesters of their first year.

Academic Coaching

Students are expected to meet with an academic coach at least once each semester of their first year. Academic coaching is a one-on-one meeting with a staff member that focuses on helping the student to identify barriers to academic success, to find solutions to overcome those barriers, and to help students develop skills that will help them be successful in the classroom.

FIRST Events

Students are expected to participate in FIRST events throughout the semester. Events include social gatherings, meals and workshops about preparing for advising, filing for financial aid, choosing a major and taking advantage of experiential learning opportunities.

Peer Mentoring

Students are expected to meet with a peer mentor at least once each semester of their first year. The peer mentors have completed the FIRST program and can provide insight about navigating the college experience. 

Campus Engagement

Students are expected to engage with the campus community by joining a club or organization, working an on-campus job, or participating in an University-sponsored music, theater or sports program.

Engaged students are more likely to report being happy and feeling comfortable on campus. They are also more likely to make friends and connections that can help them navigate university life. Being engaged in campus life is also an important part of developing marketable skills like leadership, collaboration and problem-solving.

Kickoff Weekend

All FIRST students are required to attend the FIRST kickoff weekend. Parents are also invited and encouraged to attend.

At kickoff, students and parents will get an overview of the program, get answers to their questions and, and have opportunities to get to know each other. Students will also get a head-start on learning about campus resources and getting ready for your first week of classes. A detailed schedule is available in Porches.

Registration Information

Students who plan to attend FIRST Kickoff need to register in advance to ensure that housing is ready for their arrival. To register, complete the FIRST Kickoff Registration Form on your Porches checklist.

If you are participating in another early arrival experience like MEC Pro or Camp Blue, let us know on when you complete the registration form; we'll make arrangements so you can engage in both opportunities.
Contact Office of Learning Resources
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469 - 1302
937-229-2066 email

Building Community

From orientation to graduation, FIRST students have opportunities to make lifelong connections