Your First Year

Students talking a picture in a mirror on the first day of class

Your Jayhawk Journey is Just Beginning 

This program offers semester-long programming for first year Jayhawks through academic connections, social events, workshops, and guest speakers. Your First Year connects first year students with opportunities to deepen their KU connections established from Orientation and Hawk Week.

  • Continue to build community and connections with other Jayhawks, including staff and faculty. 
  • Learn about resources and skills that support their holistic wellness and transition to KU. 
  • Begin to master navigating KU’s spaces, both geographically and digitally. 
  • Understand how Academic Success units support students' retention and persistence.

Upcoming Events 

I am KU program logo

I am First-Gen, and I am KU

Are you a first-gen student eager to make the most of your academic journey? Join us for an engaging time of connections and community at I am First Gen, and I am KU. This special gathering is designed to help you navigate your way into our campus community. First-gen KU staff members will lead an insightful discussion on the unique challenges and opportunities first-gen students encounter. Whether you have questions about academics, campus involvement, or simply wish to make new friends, this event is perfect for you!
Your First Year program logo

Your First Year: Thriving During Winter Break

Transitioning from the academic hustle to the comforts of home can be both exciting and challenging. "Thriving During Winter Break" is your guide to making the most of your time away from college while setting the stage for a successful return.

Join us on December 4th from 2:00-3:00pm for a unique workshop designed to help you make the most of your break, academically and mentally. Cheleia Marshall, a health educator with HERO, will be there to equip you with strategies to stay academically engaged while also prioritizing your self-care and well-being.
 
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Past Events

KU Hearts Transfers logo

Your First Year: KU ❤️'s Transfers Trivia Night

Do you enjoy trivia and all things KU? Join us for a fun and engaging night of KU Trivia while celebrating KU’s transfer student population. Doors open at 5:00pm with free refreshments, giveaways, and a chance for students to form teams before trivia starts at 5:30pm. Whether you are a trivia enthusiast or just looking for exciting way to spend the evening make sure you mark your calendars for trivia, giveaways, free food, and prizes.
Graphic with Event Information. Event Title: Your First Year - Fall into Academic Success, Event Date - 10/8, Event Time - 11am, Event Location - Ascher Plaza

Your First Year: Fall into Academic Success

As the leaves change and fall settles in, it's the perfect time to Unlock Your Academic Potential!



This tabling event will feature representatives from key units dedicated to your academic success,

- Hawk Link

- Jayhawk Academic Advising

- Military-Affiliated Student Center

- Student Access Center

- Success Technologies

- University Career Center

- Wingspan: Center for Learning and Writing Support
KU Hearts Transfers logo

National Transfer Student Week Kickoff

Join the Center for Orientation and Transition Programs on Wescoe Beach to kickoff National Transfer Student Week! Stop by for giveaways and to learn more about all the exciting events taking place to celebrate KU's transfer student population.
Your First Year event description

Your First Year: Breathe In, Stress Out

Are you a first-year student feeling the weight of academic demands, social pressures, and the challenges of newfound independence? You're not alone! Join us on October 24th from 3:00pm-3:45pm to take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced college experience.

Cheleia Marshall, a health educator with HERO, will be speaking on the ins and outs of stress and anxiety in the college environment. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools to recognize these challenges in yourself, learn effective strategies for managing them, and understand how they might manifest uniquely during your college journey.
Your First Year Description

Your First Year: Thriving During College Breaks

Transitioning from the academic hustle to the comforts of home can be both exciting and challenging. "Thriving During College Breaks" is your guide to making the most of your time away from college while setting the stage for a successful return.

Join us on November 29th from 1:00-1:45pm for a unique workshop designed to help you make the most of your break, academically and mentally. Cheleia Marshall, a health educator with HERO, will be there to equip you with strategies to stay academically engaged while also prioritizing your self-care and well-being.
Your First Year: Snowed In Advertisement with event information

Your First Year: Snowed in with Academic Success

Explore a winter wonderland of academic resources! Stroll through our snow-covered booths where representatives from various success units will be on hand to showcase the wealth of tools, services, and support available to help you succeed. Embrace the warmth of knowledge, community, and free food, and set the stage for a successful semester!
Your First Year event description

Your First Year: Setting Goals for Growth

This event is ideal for anyone looking to gain clarity, motivation, and direction in pursuing their goals. Whether you're striving for personal growth, career advancement, or lifestyle changes, this workshop will empower you to take meaningful action and make your dreams a reality. Journals will be provided for the first 40 students or you are welcome bring your own. (While this event is a part of OTPs Your First Year programming all students are able to attend!)

What to Expect:
- Engaging presentations and interactive exercises
- Opportunities for sharing insights and connecting with like-minded individuals
- Light refreshments and all necessary supplies included
- Giveaways provided by the Center for Orientation and Transition Programs and KU Alumni Association