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Welcome Wednesdays: Introducing First Year Seminar at Elmira College

This is the first of five weekly articles explaining First Year Seminar to incoming students so they can rank their top four Term I FYS course choices by June 30.

At Elmira College, we’re here to help you at every step of your transition from home to college. As you begin at EC, you’ll want to build connections, find the best spots on campus, and learn the critical-thinking skills to navigate college life. EC’s First Year Seminar program will help you in that transition. FYS consists of two courses: FYS 1010: First Year Seminar, offered in the fall (Term I), and WRT 1050: First Year Writing, which is offered in the winter (Term II).

FYS 1010: First Year Seminar combines an academic exploration of an interesting topic with instruction on “how to college.” You’ll have input on which topic you would like to explore. Rank your top four FYS 1010 choices by June 30 using the FYS selection form on the admissions portal. If you have any questions or need assistance, reach out to the Admissions Office at (607) 735-1724 or admissions@elmira.edu.

But what are the FYS 1010: First Year Seminar course options?

The FYS 1010 courses include a broad range of topics meant to capture a broad range of student interests. Some will explore art, film, and representation, while others will focus on building resilience and healthy habits for success. One will investigate true crime dramas and another will explore Dungeons & Dragons and other storytelling games.

While the course topics are diverse, each will teach you skills for college success at EC. You’ll learn how to get involved in campus life; how to utilize campus resources and support services; how to engage with the EC and Elmira community; and how to become more skilled in reading, writing, discussing, and presenting on topics of interest. At the end of the term, you and your peers will share some of your work during the FYS Showcase and Celebration event.

"We're excited to support students as they start their college journey," said Adam Giambrone, Associate Professor of Mathematics and Director of the First Year Seminar Program. "First Year Seminar helps students build connections with fellow students, with Elmira College's support services, and with the campus and local community. Our goal with FYS is to help students find their place at Elmira College and start a successful academic career that will prepare them for whatever comes after graduation."

"Engaging, compelling, and meaningful courses are the means to providing students a strong start at college, setting them up for academic success, and developing their critical reasoning skills," said Dr. Patricia Ireland, Provost. "Studying topics of mutual interest among students and instructors provides an immediate way for students to connect with their peers and the faculty, which will benefit them throughout their college career."

Next week’s Welcome Wednesdays article will highlight three courses exploring how art and film help us understand the world: Animating the World of Myth (Honors course), Lights, Camera, Re-Action!; and Art, Design, and the Environment.

Welcome Wednesdays Articles:

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