Engage to Explore (FYE). Engage to Plan (SYE).
As you begin this exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experience, it is important to know that we offer lots of way to help in your transition. We host a variety of events during the First Year Experience (FYE) and Second Year Experience (SYE) that will create a pathway for success for your next four years in college! The mission of FYE/ SYE is to provide experiences that challenge and support the transition of students from point of enrollment through their second year of Augusta University. The vision of FYE/ SYE is to cultivate a growth mindset in order to facilitate student success.
First and Second Year Experiences
Summerville Campus
Suite 331
706-667-4412
The Office of First and Second Year Experiences honors the life and lasting legacy of Dr. Beth Huggins, Augusta University’s first Director of First and Second Year Experiences. During more than 25 years of service to the university, Dr. Huggins was an innovative educator, gifted problem-solver, and tireless advocate who devoted herself to creating supportive pathways for every student to succeed. Her vibrant personality, optimism, and warmth filled the Treehouse and made students, colleagues, and visitors feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. Dr. Huggins’ passion for celebrating students and helping them discover their potential shaped programs including INQR courses, Jaguar JumpStart, and career-focused experiences, earned her national recognition as one of the country’s outstanding first-year experience professionals.
Augusta University has lost a shining star, but Dr. Huggins’ spirit will live on through the students she championed, the colleagues she inspired, and the programs she built. Those wishing to honor her legacy may contribute to the Dr. Elizabeth “Beth” Huggins FYE/SYE Student Support Fund.
Make your college experience the best experience.
First and Second Year Experiences are designed to help students make the most of their college experience from the day they step on campus! FYE/SYE offers a variety of events including Adulting Workshops, Book Clubs, and class-wide events that recognize significant milestones in your college career.
The university's official welcome for its newest members of the Augusta University family.
FYE/SYE offers many opportunities for you to explore your purpose and plan your pathway.
Jaguar Jumpstart is an Augusta University learning community focused on freshman success.
One Hour-Core Class either your first year (Design Your Life) OR your second year (Research in the Discipline).
The Certificate of Leadership program at Augusta University exposes students to leadership theory and practice, guides students in leadership development, and offers experiences for students to learn leadership first-hand.
Learn more about AU's Study Abroad Office and how you can join our office abroad!
Core Class for First and Second Year Students
Inquiry 1000 is a one credit hour, small group, discussion-based course designed to engage lower division students in the discovery, exploration, and analysis of ideas that faculty members, across a variety of disciplines, study and investigate. The purpose of INQR 1000 course is to inspire students to research, reflect, and respond to their own questions using discussion and application to create meaningful connections.
"We're putting Augusta University on the map at a national level. It's something that's been well deserved, and I think we deserve the recognition that we're getting here at AU," says Roberto Aragon.
"I've built a career helping people transition and deal with tough transitions while I've never had to change ZIP codes. That's not lost on me," says Julie Goley.
"Art is a form of giving back. I want students to understand that their work can serve their communities and make a meaningful difference," says Stan Dodson, EdD.
Networking and making connections is a key focus of the annual Accounting Night event for the James M. Hull College of Business.
About the Treehouse
The Office of First and Second Year Experiences is located in University Hall 331
aka "the Treehouse". It is here where students "branch out" and explore new pathways!
Come by the Treehouse to ask questions, get answers, and reflect on your purpose in
college.
Artwork credit:
Ms. Erin Schmidt, Augusta University Alumna
Former FYE/SYE Student Assistant