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Learn more about FYE on the FYE weblog!

Did you know?

  • “Leatherneck“ is also a nickname for a Marine. WIU is the only civlian school allowed to use the Leatherneck nickname for its sports teams.

First Year Experience

The First Year Experience (FYE) is a comprehensive approach to ensure first year students make a successful transition to college.

FYE begins with Summer Orientation and Registration (SOAR) which includes informative presentations, small-group discussions, academic advising, placement testing, and class registration all designed to inform new students and their families about what to expect during students’ first year.

Freshmen will enroll in one FYE class during each of their first two semesters at WIU. These special course sections are limited to freshmen only and offer a small class size of approximately 20 students.

Each student will receive a copy of the Common Reading, which is a book selected to relate to the current university theme. Reading the book and attending related events will provide a common experience for all freshmen.

Living and Learning Communities in the residence halls allow freshmen to meet, live, and transition into college life with other first year students.