First-Year Experience

Welcome to Your First Year at St. Edward’s!

Whether you’re a first-time freshman or a transfer student, our First-Year Experience (FYE) program will prepare you to make the most of your education on the hilltop. 

Starting on day one, you’ll get to know a team of people eager to support your success and well-being, including your success coach, peer mentor, professors and resident advisor, to name a few. They’ll work with you to create a personalized college experience enriched with opportunities to explore your interests and talents — on campus, in the Austin community and beyond.   

Build Foundations, Connections and Community

Your First-Year Experience is designed to help you build your future. You’ll develop the foundations needed for success in college, in your first job after graduation and in your chosen career. Here’s what FYE prepares you to do: 

• Engage fully in a community of learners and scholars who are guided by our Holy Cross mission of educating both the mind and the heart — and become part of the Hilltopper family for life.
• Delve into the core courses that underpin your major. You’ll be challenged to think critically, communicate well, solve problems from a moral and ethical perspective, and apply what you learn to make the world a better place.
• Team up with your success coach and academic advisor to develop a personalized roadmap for your academic career. Your plan will bring together your major, classes, student activities, leadership roles, internships and more to steer you toward your goals.
• Participate in student organizations and clubs, residence life and volunteer activities, and academic projects that spark meaningful interactions with your peers. You’ll make lifelong friendships in the process.
• Get to know your professors, in the classroom and during office hours. Ask questions, debate ideas and collaborate with them on research and creative projects. You’ll cultivate professional connections, mentors and advocates for your success.