First-Year Seminar
FYS 2023-2024

Every first-year student at USJ is supported through participation in our thoughtfully crafted and unique First-Year Seminar (FYS) program.
This program includes a three-credit course during the fall semester (FYSI) and a one-credit course during the spring semester (FYSII), both of which count towards your graduation requirements.

Through the FYS program students will:
- Experience what it means to be a college student at USJ
- Make connections and build relationships with fellow students and instructors
- Engage with academic topics in an interdisciplinary manner
- Learn about the services and resources available at USJ to support student growth and success
- Develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and other aspects that will strengthen their ability to succeed in college, careers, and life
Fall FYS
A three-credit course that is framed around one of various academic subjects that intersects with the Mission and Core Values of USJ.
- Each fall FYSI course:
- Meets two-to-three times per week
- Has a designated Peer Mentor, an upper-class student who will be a link for first-year students to other campus constituencies in-and-out of the class
- Addresses the academic, social, and emotional challenges of the first-year experience
- Introduces students to services and resources available at the University
- Examines an academic topic as a means to develop college-level critical thinking, reading, and communication skills
- Encourages involvement in University activities outside of the classroom
- Provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students to grow
Spring FYS
A one-credit course that centers on service-learning, where students and instructors work collaboratively on a service project that impacts the college, local, or global community.
- Each spring FYSII course:
- Meet once per week
- Explore the importance of compassionate service and its connection with the USJ Mission
- Have a particular focus for the service being conducted
- Develop skills in individual and teamwork contexts
- Build oral communication skills culminating in presentation at USJ’s Symposium Day
For current and upcoming courses, please visit the USJ Course Search.
FYS FAQs
Questions?
Contact:
Derek Dube, Ph.D.
FYS Director
Email: [email protected]