First-Year Experience

Welcome to the University of Illinois! The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is thrilled to help you have a successful college experience. LAS First-Year Experience (FYE) is designed to help you with your transition from high school and to ensure that you have a great start at the University of Illinois.

FYE equips first year and transfer students with the knowledge to obtain academic success and personal well-being by building community through LAS Liftoff, first year courses, and opportunities to connect with other students.

LAS Liftoff

Held in August, LAS Liftoff is the college's welcome celebration for first-year and transfer students to help you kick off your amazing journey at the University of Illinois. It often features live entertainment, free LAS swag, and a chance to meet classmates and staff within our college.


Connect with other students

We're here to support you through your time in the College of LAS. To get a great start, check out some of the programs available for students.

Students talk in the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center
We Got Each Other
This biweekly gathering for Black male students will empower you to thrive while at the University of Illinois.
Students connect at the Welcome Black BBQ
My Auntie’s House
My Auntie’s House is a collaborative community that empowers Black female students in LAS.
Students talk outside Lincoln Hall
First year classes

LAS 101 is a one-credit, graded course designed to assist you in succeeding at Illinois. These small-group classes meet weekly and are led by an LAS 101 intern—a successful junior or senior whose goal is to help you get off to a strong start.

LAS 102 assists new transfer students in their transition to LAS and campus. The course includes lessons and workshops designed to meet the specific needs of a diverse transfer student population.

In LAS, you're supported

From resources dedicated to academic support to study abroad, check out the opportunities you'll have access to as a student in LAS:

A student talks to a professor
Matthew Crimmins
Matthew Crimmins
"FYE makes a positive impact on many students during a tough transition: the first couple weeks of college."
Robert Walker Jr.
Robert Walker Jr.
"I’m grateful to have been fully supported by First Year Experience. The best part is knowing that you are not alone."
Ruichen Gao
Ruichen Gao
"In my new student orientation class, we shared a lot of thoughts, and I got to know about other students daily lives."