First-Year Experience

Welcome to the First Year Experience (FYE) Program!

The First-Year Experience (FYE) Golden Eagle Launch Program welcomes incoming students in their first year of study at Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU). Through FYE courses and co-curricular program initiatives, students are supported through their academic and social transition to campus life.

The program is guided by six areas of focus, forming the acronym LAUNCH:

• LEARN – Providing students with an overview of NEIU resources and college readiness practices that develop critical thinking, written, and oral expression.
• ASK – Encouraging intentional community-building through check-ins, cooperative learning, and relationship-building with FYE faculty and staff.
• UNDERSTAND – Connecting coursework to students' futures through research, civic engagement, service learning, and field components.
• NAVIGATE – Supporting students as they adjust academically and socially, including connection to a FYE peer mentor/success coach.
• CONNECT – Helping students discover their place within the university and the wider community through campus events and student leadership opportunities.
• HAVE FUN – Fostering a sense of belonging and joy in the learning process during this important first year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an FYE class?

FYE courses are engaging classes for first-year students that are a blend of college readiness content and general education class content. Each FYE class is supported by an assigned FYE Peer Mentor. The professor and peer mentor work closely to set you up for success at NEIU and beyond.

Who takes FYE courses?

All first-year students (students who enter NEIU with 0-30 credit hours) and/or any first-time freshmen with less than 2 semesters of post-secondary education must register in, and successfully complete an FYE course with a “C” or better in their first semester at NEIU as part of their graduation requirements.

How do FYE classes help me?

All FYE courses provide credit toward your general education requirements and help support your transition to NEIU. Read more about general education requirements.

How do I register for an FYE course?

Your advisor will help you pick an FYE class at orientation. First-year students must meet with their advisor to register for classes. If you are unable to attend any of the orientation sessions and would still like to register for classes, please call the Advising Center at (773) 442-5470. Students admitted to Project Success or Proyecto Pa’Lante contact your advisor within the appropriate program or contact the program office if you’re not sure of your assigned advisor.

How do I prepare for college success?

Visit College Success Concise. This site is also a text that guides you through FYE content that will be covered in your First-Year Experience course.