Transition into college with the help of SLU’s First-Year Experience Program. You’ll learn everything SLU has to offer, including dozens of ways to get involved.
SLU 101
You'll make lifelong friends during this orientation program. Register for classes, get a rundown on campus resources, and have a great time with other new Billikens during your first few days together on campus.
Your parents and family members are encouraged to attend SLU 101 with you to learn about scholarships and financial aid, student health resources, campus safety, academic advising and transition issues.
Fall welcome
Move-In is only a small part of Fall Welcome, which is one of the most exciting times of the year at SLU. Designed to help you feel at home and provide fun opportunities for you get to know your classmates, Fall Welcome includes New Student Convocation and Family Welcome, a day of service, a kick-off dance and a can’t-miss spirit competition at a Billiken soccer game.
Cura Personalis
The support you’ll get during Fall Welcome lasts the entire semester with Cura Personalis, a one-credit-hour course focused on your transition to college. These small, interactive classes meet once a week and provide an ongoing introduction to campus resources. Sections of Cura Personalis are kept to about 20 students, and over two-thirds of incoming first-year students enroll in the course.
Learning Communities
You’re more likely to succeed when your education extends beyond the walls of the classroom. SLU learning communities allow you to live in the same residence hall with other students who are in your academic program or who share your interests. This makes it easy to study, experience campus life together, and form lasting friendships.
- Diversity and Global Citizenship
- Engineering and Innovation
- Ethical Leaders in Business
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- Health Sciences
- Honors
- Leadership for Social Change
- Life Sciences
- Micah: Living the Mission
- Thrive: Black and Talented
- More
Support Network
Sierra Morena, Class of 2022, says, “Freshman year I lived in Reinert Hall in the Life Sciences Learning Community. Everybody on my floor took classes like general chemistry and biology. We had peer mentors and tutors who would help you through your classwork. If you needed guidance in any part of your pre-med path, if you had questions about studying for the MCAT or what classes or professors you should take, they were great resources who lived right there with you.”
7 First-Year Experience highlights
Find New passions
Not sure how to get involved on campus? Attend SLU Fair during Fall Welcome to meet representatives from SLU's 215 student groups, clubs and organizations.
First-Gen students
Will you be the first in your family to complete a college degree? Know you're in good hands. SLU’s faculty and staff will help you navigate your first year and connect you with on-campus resources.
Commuter students
You’ll have a commuter assistant, or a CA, to help answer your questions about life at SLU. You’ll also have access to special events during Fall Welcome, a reserved lounge for between-class time and lockers on campus to store your belongings.
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Getting Involved
With 215 clubs and organizations, there's something for every interest. Take a short quiz to see personalized recommendations.
Support on Campus
From Career Services to wellness to writing assistance, you'll have the resources and services you need to stay healthy and be successful.
