First-Year Initiatives

The transition from high school to college is a pivotal moment in a student’s life. The Academic Center for Excellence offers a range of first-year initiatives designed to help students navigate this transition successfully. We recognize that first-generation college students and those from historically underserved communities often face unique challenges and systemic barriers as they begin their college journey. Our approach focuses on each student’s strengths and potential, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive.

Through our first-year initiatives, students can work with experienced coaches, academic specialists, and peer success coaches who provide one-on-one mentoring and guidance throughout the year. This personalized support includes help with time management and study strategies, navigating campus resources, exploring majors and career paths, and connecting with the broader UIC community. We also offer workshops on academic success strategies and create opportunities for students to build meaningful relationships with peers and campus partners.

Whether you’re invited to participate in one of our programs or you reach out to us on your own, we’re here to support your success. Our goal is to help every first-year student build a strong foundation for their academic journey at UIC and develop the self-sufficiency to take advantage of all the opportunities available to them throughout their college experience.