Our first-year programs are designed to help you transition into your new surroundings. Such programs as New Student Orientation, First-Year Advisement, FirstChoice, and the First-Year Residential Experience provide solid, positive foundations leading to your academic and social success. A social-networking site for first-year students, The Laker allows you to connect with your peers, learn more about college and seek advice when you want.

New Student Orientation
Consider orientation your 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, and Orientation provides answers. You can make new friends among those coming to Oswego, and can speak with experienced academic advisors and professionals who will help make your time here memorable. For more information, check the Orientation site or contact Nathan Emmons.

First-Year Advisement
When you enroll at Oswego, we pair you 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 an array of courses tailored to first-year students transitioning 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, 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)
The renovated Johnson Hall houses the First-Year Residential Experience. 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. FYRE residents actively participate in learning activities sponsored by Johnson Hall staff in addition to regularly attending hall council meetings and GST 100, a freshmen seminar course. For more details, contact Jackie Campbell.