Many first-year students face the challenge of successfully adjusting to college life. Our first-year programs are designed to help you transition into their new surroundings. Such signature programs as New Student Orientation, First-Year Advisement, FirstChoice, and the First-Year Residential Experience (FYRE) provide solid and positive foundations that will lead to your future academic and social success. A new social-networking site for first-year students, The Laker allows you to make connections with your peers, learn more about college and seek advice when you want.

New Student Orientation
Consider orientation your personal gateway to an exciting and engaging opportunity. As with any new chapter in your life, questions likely loom in the back of your mind as you prepare to enter life at SUNY Oswego. “What classes should I take?” “Where can I find a job on campus?” “What am I supposed to do once I arrive?” Rest assured your questions will be answered at Orientation. You can also speak with experienced academic advisors and professionals across the campus community who can help make your time at Oswego a memorable one. Orientation dates and other details may be found online or by contacting Nathan Emmons.

First-Year Advisement
When you enroll at Oswego, you will be paired with a knowledgeable faculty advisor. Whether you’ve declared a major or not, your First-Year Advisor, with the help of an upperclass student peer advisor, will welcome and assist you as you begin your academic journey. For more details regarding First-Year Advisement, contact Michelle Bandla.

FirstChoice - First Year Academic Experience
FirstChoice offers a specific array of courses tailored to all first-year students making the transition to college life. Each course is limited to 19 students, creating a more personal educational setting. FirstChoice programs include Service Learning, Preceptors, Gateway, CHAMPS/Life Skills, Sheldon Leaders, First-Year Honors Experience, Living and Learning Communities , and First-Year Select. For more details about FirstChoice, contact Michelle Bandla.

First Year Residential Program (FYRE)
After an extensive three-year renovation, Johnson Hall reopened its doors as the new home of the First-Year Residential Experience (FYRE). FYRE is more than just a “home for first-year students”; it's a comprehensive, engaging and interactive living community bundled with specific opportunities for students to succeed both socially and academically.

All FYRE residents actively participate in learning activities sponsored by Johnson Hall staff in addition to regularly attending weekly hall council meetings and enrolling in GST 100, a freshmen seminar course. For more details, contact Nathan Emmons.