Overall satisfaction with college life is an important factor in retention. Recognizing this, the "first year programs" concept represents a deliberate attempt to ensure that first year students are welcomed, celebrated and supported through the use of peer mentors, orientation classes, and increased interaction with faculty outside the classroom.

The three-phase first year experience series allows students and families to gain valuable information about themselves, the campus and the EKU community. The First Year Programs Office seeks to meet the needs of new students both inside and outside of the classroom. Our goal is to create comprehensive programs that will empower first year students to persist to graduation.