First-Year Experience

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We know that what happens in the first year is critical to your long term success. Smeal's Undergraduate Programs Office has developed several programs and informational materials to help guide you through the first year and beyond.

Remember that your academic adviser can be a great resource to you during your first year. We recommend that students meet with their assigned adviser at least one time each semester.

First-Year Resources

First-Year Seminar (PSU 6)

The Smeal First-Year Seminar (PSU 6) helps incoming students transition to college, explore business majors, and build essential skills. Connect with faculty, engage with peers, and discover key resources for academic success at Penn State.

Smeal Student Mentors

Smeal Student Mentors help first-year students navigate the transition to Penn State. Upperclass mentors provide guidance on academics, campus involvement, and student life, helping new students build connections and succeed in their first year.

Student Organizations

Explore more than 40 student organizations at Penn State Smeal. Joining a student org offers opportunities to build professional skills, connect with peers, gain leadership experience, and network with industry corporate sponsors.

Learning Edge Academic Program (LEAP)

The LEAP Summer Start Experience helps incoming University Park first-years transition to college during Summer Session II with small reserved classes, peer mentoring, and living communities. Fall admits can request a summer start by May 1.

Language Proficiency Exam

Smeal students have a world language requirement, but fluent speakers (reading, writing and speaking) have an option to take a proficiency exam.

First-Year Events

Throughout your first year at Penn State Smeal, key events help you transition smoothly, meet student mentors, connect with faculty, and get involved with student organizations.

College Meeting

Held the day before classes begin every semester. The Dean greet and his staff greet new first year students to review expectations.

Welcome Picnic for 1st Year Students

Hosted by the Smeal Student Mentors, this event is held within the first few weeks of classes. Be on the lookout for an email from your student mentor.

Involvement Days

This event is held the first week of classes in the HUB. Student organizations set up information tables. First-year students should attend this event to find out more information on clubs and organizations that they might be interested in joining.

Snack and Schedule

The Snack and Schedule is held in October of every year. It is an opportunity for first year students to meet with their mentors and talk about their Spring schedules.

Explore Smeal

Explore Smeal is a great place for first- and second-year students to learn more about Smeal majors and Smeal Student Organizations.

Contact Advising

Questions about the first-year experience at Smeal? Schedule an appointment with your Academic Adviser!

Schedule an Appointment

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