First Year Experience

The First Year Experience program provides engaging activities for first-year students aimed at building a strong foundation to enhance students' educational experiences and foster success.  This program recognizes the significance of each student's first-year experiences and supports them in reaching their academic and personal goals. 

A&M-Texarkana's First Year Experience Mission Statement

The First Year Experience Program is designed to facilitate students' transition into the academic and social community of scholars at Texas A&M University-Texarkana and provide them with essential skills to enhance academic success.

Please visit the First Year Experience website for additional information.

Convocation

Convocation is an academic ceremony that traditionally allows newly-matriculated students to join the university community and begin their academic career among their colleagues and professors.  Becoming part of the university community is an exciting event in a student’s life, and the role of the Convocation is to solemnize and celebrate that moment. 

Please visit the Convocation website for additional information.

University Foundations (IS 1100)

University Foundations is an introductory course to higher education designed to assist students in becoming an engaged learner and high performing student within the academic community.  All new freshmen are required to complete this course, and it is taught exclusively by full-time faculty.

Common Reading Experience

The Common Reading Experience is an opportunity for students to share reading and learning experiences with their classmates and faculty. This experience allows students to bond with each other as a community of learners.  Additionally, they will come together to participate in conversations and activities on campus and beyond associated with the annual academic theme.

Please visit the First Year Experience website for additional information regarding the Common Reading Experience. 

First Year Experience (FYE) Coaching

Student leaders serve as FYE Coaches for first-year students.  Throughout the University Foundations course, coaches will teach students skills needed to be high performing scholars and guide them inside and outside of the classroom throughout their first year.

FYE Coaches are responsible for:

  • Offering advice about academic expectations and student life
  • Inviting students to A&M-Texarkana events and activities
  • Introducing students to campus activities, student organizations, and academic opportunities
  • Arranging social events throughout the year
  • Connecting students with the appropriate resource(s) for their needs

Please visit the First Year Experience website for additional information regarding FYE Coaching.