Xavier University of Louisiana has an integrated and comprehensive program designed to allow new students to make the transition from high school to college and provide these students with the tools needed for college success. The goals of the Freshman Year Experience are to empower freshmen with the skills and support needed for college success (and Xavier success), enhance their professional development, and understand their role and mission as Xavier students. Xavier students, then, should be exposed to:

• The Mission of XU and the Vision of St. Katharine Drexel
• University Policies and Procedures, and Respective Offices
• Skills for Academic Success
• Academic Support Programs and Other Resources
• Means to Achieve Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Well-Being
• Skills and Behaviors for Professional Success
• Fiscal Responsibility
• Campus Organizations and Co-curricular Activities
• Use of Technology
• What is Expected of a Xavierite

The Freshman Year Experience includes the Summer “Lagniappe” Orientation, the Fall New Student Orientation, the Freshman Seminar courses (FRSM 1000 and FRSM 1100), student monitoring and mentoring, a freshman book reading, and a common theme that can be used in first-year courses.

The freshman book reading for fall 2011 is Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal by Eric Schlosser (ISBN-13: 9780547518244). The Freshman Seminar reading books will be distributed during the first Freshman Seminar lecture class.

New freshmen should go to First Year FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for answers to questions often posed to us. Information can also be found on the Office of Admissions and the Office of Financial Aid webpages. CLICK HERE for information on the 2011 Lagniappe New Student Summer Preview, May 27-28, 2011.