Student Transitions

Student smiling in class

Office of Student Transitions
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5263 USA
(269) 387-2167

First-Year Experience

 

What is First-Year Experience (FYE)?

FYE-2100 is an intensive, highly interactive two-credit hour course that introduces students to the excitement of intellectual inquiry, personal discovery, and the university campus culture as they make the transition from high school to college. Facilitated by both an instructor and a student leader, it is designed to unite a new community of WMU students through shared experiences that support holistic wellness. Talk to your academic advisor to register for FYE 2100 this fall!

Why take FYE?

Working with your peers, an instructor, and a student leader, you’ll engage in meaningful activities that help you grow as a person and as a member of the university community during your first semester at WMU. You’ll learn how to pursue your intellectual and personal interests, as well as figure out how to make the most of the many resources on campus available to support you! 

Benefits of taking FYE: 

  • Build positive relationships with peers, staff, and faculty to create a sense of belonging. 
  • Become familiar with campus resources and how to use them. 
  • Develop strategies for academic success. 
  • Explore your own strengths and goals and learn how you can pursue them at WMU. 

FAQs

FYE 2100 is not currently required, but it is highly recommended that all first-year students sign up for it. In addition, students participating in select programs are required to enroll in FYE 2100. These programs include:

  • Exploratory Advising in Merze Tate College – Students may choose from the following sections of FYE 2100: Exploratory (encouraged for students who aren't part of a special program), Classic, Global Engagement and Study Abroad, Leadership, Sustainability, or any of the special program sections for which they qualify (CAMP, TRIO, Foundation, MLK, Seita, etc.).
  • College of Education and Human Development – Students may choose from the following sections of FYE 2100: CEHD, Classic, Global Engagement and Study Abroad, Leadership, Sustainability, or any of the special program sections for which they qualify (CAMP, TRIO FESP, Foundation, MLK, Seita, etc.).
  • WMU Alpha Program – Students may choose from the following sections of FYE 2100: Alpha, CEHD, Classic, Global Engagement and Study Abroad, Leadership, Sustainability, or any of the special program sections for which they qualify (CAMP, TRIO, MLK, Seita, etc.).
  • College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) - Students are required to register for the CAMP section.
  • MLK Scholars - Students are required to register for the MLK section.
  • TRIO FESP (Future Educators Success Program) - Students are required to register for the TRIO FESP section.
  • TRIO SSP (Student Success Program) – Students are required to register for a TRIO SSP section.
  • Seita Scholars Program – Students are required to register for a Seita section.
  • Foundation Scholars – Students are required to register for a Foundation Scholars section.

Classic – This section is open to all students who do not fall into the following categories: TRIO SSP, TRIO FESP, Seita Scholars Program, Foundation Scholars Program, or the College Assistance Migrant Program. 

Exploratory Advising – This section is designed and recommended for students who have not yet declared a major. There will be an emphasis on exploring majors and potential career paths. 

Alpha – This section is designed specifically for students who have been admitted to WMU through the Alpha Program. FYE 2100 is required for all Alpha students. But students may choose to take any FYE section for which they qualify. Students who are not part of the Alpha program should not enroll in this section. 

CAMP – This section is designed specifically for students participating in the College Assistance Migrant Program. Students who are not part of this program should not register for a CAMP section. 

College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) – This section is designed for students with majors in the College of Education and Human Development. Students in CEHD are required to enroll in FYE 2100, but may choose from this section or any other sections for which they qualify.

Foundation Scholars – This section is designed specifically for Foundation Scholars. It is required for all Foundation Scholars. Students who are not Foundation Scholars should not enroll in this section. 

Global Engagement and Study Abroad - Open to all students who are not part of the following sections: CAMP, Foundation Scholars, Seita Scholars, TRIO FESP and TRIO SSP. This section is for students interested in study abroad and global engagement. Students in this section will work toward achieving Global Bronco Status through the Global Engagement Program in order to earn a $500 study abroad scholarship for a future study abroad experience. Students will have the opportunity to attend events with a global focus, engage in reflective discussions, and explore how global learning fits into their college journey.    

Kalamazoo Promise - This section is open to Kalamazoo Promise students. While FYE 2100 is not required for Kalamazoo Promise Scholars, it is highly recommended. Kalamazoo Promise students may be required to take other sections that apply to them—CAMP, Foundation, MLK, Seita, TRIO. They may also choose to take any of the open sections—Classic, Exploratory, Global Engagement and Study Abroad, Leadership, Sustainability. 

Leadership - Open to all students who are not part of the following sections: CAMP, Foundation Scholars, Seita Scholars, TRIO FESP and TRIO SSP.  This section will have a particular emphasis on enhancing the college experience through leadership development. It is designed for both students who were active leaders in high school as well as those who are looking to begin developing their leadership abilities. Students will participate in skill building activities and will have opportunities to develop friendships and connections with other student leaders. 

MLK Scholars - This section is intended for first-year students participating in the MLK Academy (MLK Scholars). Students who are not part of the MLK Academy should not register for this session.

Seita Scholars – This section is designed specifically for Seita Scholars. It is required for all Seita Scholars. Students who are not Seita Scholars should not enroll in this section.  

Sustainability - Open to all students who are not part of the following sections: CAMP, Foundation Scholars, Seita Scholars, TRIO FESP and TRIO SSP. This section is for anyone interested in sustainability—whether students plan to major in a related field or just want to explore how to get involved at WMU. Students will learn how sustainability connects to everyday life, the campus, and the wider world. Through activities, discussions, and projects, students will connect with campus resources, meet peers, and discover ways to make a positive impact during their time at WMU and beyond.

TRIO FESP (Future Educators Success Program) – This section is designed specifically for students participating in TRIO FESP. Students who are not participating in TRIO FESP should not register for this section. 

TRIO SSP (Student Success Program) – This section is designed specifically for students participating in TRIO SSP. It is required for all students who are participating in TRIO SSP. Students who are not participating in TRIO SSP should not enroll in this section. 

 

FYE is offered during each fall semester.

Ask your academic advisor about FYE 2100 when you’re registering for classes during New Student Orientation in the summer.   

Class sizes are capped at 22 students. 

FYE courses are taught by WMU faculty and staff members, along with an undergraduate student leader as a co-facilitator. Instructors and co-facilitators work together to connect first-year students with campus resources, provide one-on-one support, facilitate meaningful discussions, and create a sense of community from the first day of class. 

No. FYE is open to all first-year students, including transfer students. However, there are specific sections just for exploratory students. 

This course does not have a textbook, but students will need to purchase a copy of the WMU common read. Each year, all FYE students read a book designed to promote open, honest and thought-provoking discussions related to personal growth and overcoming obstacles. 

Yes, FYE 2100 is a two-credit hour course that can be used toward students’ elective credits.  

FYE Awards

Each year, the WMU Office of Student Transitions recognizes outstanding work in the classroom for both FYE Instructors and student leaders. Instructors and co-facilitators are nominated by students participating in an FYE 2100 course or by one another.  The recipients for fall 2025 are:

Instructor of the Year

Derek Andree, Acting Director of Admissions and Advising, College of Education and Human Development

Derek’s nominators said he is incredibly friendly, approachable, and fun to be around, creating a classroom where students feel welcomed and included from day one. He keeps the class organized and engaging, using activities that help students connect with each other while staying on track academically.

They shared that what sets Derek apart is how much he genuinely cares. He checks in on students, supports them on tough days, and explains things until everyone feels confident. Even with a full schedule, he stays energetic, encouraging, and fully committed to making sure students feel seen and supported.

Derek is someone students feel comfortable with, someone who shows up for them, and someone who helps make their first year at WMU a positive and meaningful experience. 

Co-facilitator of the Year

Abby Voss, 

Abby’s nominators said she is caring, helpful, and always available when students need support. She creates a safe, fun classroom where everyone feels included, and she brings the perfect mix of friendliness and professionalism. Students shared that she relates to them easily, keeps class interesting, and finds creative ways to make learning engaging, whether it’s through fun activities, real conversations, or interactive games she designs herself.

They also highlighted her assertiveness and ability to guide the class with confidence, all while checking in on students’ well-being and offering genuine advice. Abby goes out of her way to make sure everyone feels heard, supported, and part of the group. 

Students made it clear that Abby’s presence makes their first year feel easier, more connected, and a lot more fun.

What are students saying about FYE?

My instructor always answers my emails in a timely manner and is able to answer literally any question I have about campus, classes, sporting events and more. He helps to fill in the gaps, helps me figure out what to do with my schedule, and is able to connect and help me focus.
My instructor has created such a well-working environment. The constant encouragement to engage in classroom discussions has allowed me to break out of my shell more. By doing so, I have been able to speak up in other classes and gain a better understanding of my courses.
FYE gave me an open, inviting setting to talk to other first-year students in a similar position that I am in. It made me feel less stressed knowing that I was not alone and had resources that I could use to my advantage to achieve academically and socially.
FYE is a great class for starting college students because it shows you not only what the academic side of things is going to look like, but also builds strong social foundations and teaches you life lessons.
My co-facilitator helped me with the bus system, physically walked me through my schedule on day one, and assisted me in getting contact information of important places around campus. She asks us what we need clarification on and makes sure to cover those topics in the next class session which is always helpful.
FYE has assisted me in my social transition to WMU because it has allowed me to meet some great people and I can recognize familiar faces around campus. It really boosts my mood when I am able to wave or say hi to people I know around campus and FYE has definitely helped with that. FYE has assisted me in my academic transition to WMU because I've learned about various resources around campus and I've gotten to meet supportive people such as my instructor, who I know are there for me if I need it.