The First-Year Experience Program includes a variety of courses and support services designed to help first year students make a successful transition to the demands of university life. The program is of a volunteer nature providing students academic and selected non-academic support services dedicated to addressing issues common to first year students. The program is comprised of the following options.

• Orientation sessions

• Freshman Seminar (SAM 136)

• Residential and non-residential cohort groups and learning communities

• Academic centers/tutorials

• Personalized academic advising

• Counseling and mentoring

• Career guidance

Sam Houston State University's faculty, staff and administrators truly value students and want each of them to be successful. The University has developed a comprehensive, coordinated approach toward the First-Year Experience. A freshman seminar, additional freshman learning communities, new student orientation schedules for both parents and students, new advising approaches, and a comprehensive listing of academic support services offered for students at SHSU.