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First Year Success Programs

The First Year Success Programs at the College of Engineering and Polymer Science aim to foster a sense of connection among freshman students. They incorporate specific curriculum elements designed to regularly connect students with faculty, staff, upper-level classmates and alumni during both the fall and spring semesters.

Learning Communities

Learning Communities

Learning Communities (LCs), one of the most impactful activities to enhance student success of first-year students, help you build connections to peers, mentors and faculty members, and gain access to resources for your development. You will be invited to attend one of the six LCs, including Computer Information Systems (CIS) LC, Cybersecurity LC, Engineering Algebra for Calculus LC, Engineering Pre-Calculus LC, Pre-Computing LC and Sherwin-Williams LC.

Zips: Engineered for Success, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Zips: Engineered for Success, Department of Mechanical Engineering

ZIPS: Engineered for Success (ZEFS) is an active discussion of Tools for Mechanical Engineering and Tools for Aerospace Engineering. The goal is to prepare first-year students for the rigors of the engineering curriculum by providing meaningful connections to the UA community. Through weekly activities, students learn lessons not typically covered in a first-year curriculum. Groups of approximately ten first year students are paired with a fourth- or fifth-year engineering student who serves as their mentor throughout the semester. Mentors lead the activities and serve as a resource for incoming students throughout the semester. The goal of ZEFS is not to be another course in the first year but a way to connect students with each other and resources across campus to make them more successful throughout their careers.

Opportunity Fair

Opportunity Fair

The annual Opportunity Fair is to engage freshman students in high-impact practices that help enhance a sense of belonging. Tables are hosted by:

  • Student design teams and student organizations to learn student life at the College,
  • Faculty and student researchers to learn undergraduate research opportunities,
  • Representatives from CEPS Graduate Program, Law School, and MBA Program to learn graduate studies,
  • CEPS Advising Center to learn about minors and certificates,
  • Co-op and Placement Program to learn how to explore career opportunities,
  • UARF to learn entrepreneurship, and
  • CEPS Office of Diversity and Inclusion to learn opportunities for personal and professional development.