Embarking on your first year at Fleming College is the start of an incredible adventure! The transition to college brings a mix of excitement and growth opportunities. So, what is a first year all about? It’s a time of adapting to new surroundings, managing your studies, and grabbing every chance for personal development. At Fleming College, we’re here to guide you through this transition with valuable resources and support. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect in your first year of college, focusing on essential aspects like orientation, academics, social life, and personal well-being. Get set for a transformative and memorable year! 

International student? We have an international checklist here.  

Finding Your Classes and Campus Maps  

One of the biggest questions you’ll have is “How do I find my classes?” 

The good news is that we have a brand-new Interactive Campus Map to help you explore campus. Pro tip: Give yourself an extra 10 minutes between classes the first week for lots of extra time to navigate.  

Academic Life 

Figuring out the academic landscape is a crucial part of your first year. College offers a more flexible schedule compared to high school, with classes spread throughout the week. This flexibility calls for self-discipline and efficient time management. What is a first-year schedule like? Check out your timetable to balance classes, study sessions, and leisure. Adopt study techniques such as active learning and self-testing to boost your understanding. Fleming College provides ample academic resources, including tutoring services and study workshops, to support your coursework. Familiarize yourself with the grading systems and assessment methods for each class to stay on track academically. 

Check out our Academic Support Services for info on tutoring, workshops, and more.  

Social Life and Making Connections 

Your first year is the perfect time to build friendships and create lasting memories. Engage in clubs and organizations that match your interests to dive into the social scene. Fleming College offers a wide range of clubs, from academic and professional groups to cultural and recreational ones. Balancing social activities with academics is key; effective time management lets you enjoy both. Study groups provide a productive way to socialize while supporting your academic goals. Attend events and workshops to meet new people and build a supportive community that will enrich your college experience. 

Student Housing and Life in Residence 

For many students, this is the first time living away from home. If you’re in residence, explore Fleming Residences for everything from move-in day details to community events. Not living in residence? The Off-Campus Housing Resources page is where you’ll want to go.  

Personal Well-being and Support 

College life can be overwhelming, making personal well-being a must during your first year. Managing stress is essential, and Fleming College provides resources like counselling services and workshops on stress management and mindfulness. Our counselling team also provides community-focused programming for Black, POC, and LGBTQIA+ students, helping with the transition to college, building connections, and finding their place within the community. 

Final Thoughts 

Your first year at Fleming is going to fly by, and while Google is handy, remember that everything you need is available at flemingcollege.ca. Lean into the resources, get involved, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

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