First Year Experience

Starting your degree is a big change from high school, whether you are commuting for the day or living on campus

Centenary’s First-Year Program for each freshman supports your transition and sets you up for success. You’ll feel at home in our community right away.

New student orientation

This mandatory two-day event for freshmen at the start of the academic year is your welcome to the campus. Parents and family members are encouraged to attend with you. It is your chance to familiarize yourself with the campus, the library, and places to eat on campus. You will have a chance to make friends with peers, meet professors, and connect to others in the Centenary community. You will get your class schedule, find out about the variety of campus clubs and organizations, and learn about the various campus services here to support you. If you are living in the dorms, this is your time to move into your room. And here is where Cyclone Pride for sports fans begins.

Learn more about Advising and Orientation here.

If you have any questions about orientation, please email Diana Alzate at Diana.Alzate@centenaryuniversity.edu

If you require accommodations for disability reasons, please email: AccessibilityServices@CentenaryUniversity.edu

Special foundation classes

Classes kick off in the Fall with several unique courses you take as a freshman that get you ready to take on the academic demands of your degree program, and become better students, citizens, and thinkers. These courses help you develop essential skills, manage stress, and understand the balance between work and personal life.

First Year Leaders

You will be paired with a First Year Leader who will be your mentor, friend, and guide to all that Centenary University has to offer. First Year Leaders are dedicated and trained upperclassmen who excel academically and showcase exceptional leadership skills. By providing essential information in relatable and practical contexts, they help you navigate your transition to university life with ease.

Drawing from their own experience, First Year Leaders understand the unique challenges and questions you may face as a new student. This insight makes them uniquely qualified to offer the guidance and support you need. With their mentorship, you can feel welcomed, informed, and fully prepared to embark on your academic journey at Centenary University. Embrace the opportunity to connect with these leaders and enhance your university experience.

First Year Leaders are expected to attend an assigned class weekly. They will support the professor by assisting with class activities, hosting events, and facilitating study groups. Their key duties include acting as a liaison between the professor and students, enhancing learning in the classroom, and maintaining a professional and punctual demeanor.

Additionally, First Year Leaders are responsible for planning and promoting two in-class and five out-of-class programs each month. They should be accessible to students through various communication methods, such as phone and email, and help them connect with campus resources and involvement opportunities. The Director of First Year Experience will receive weekly reports on student concerns, and the leaders will also complete tasks assigned by the instructor.

Center for Academics, Careers, and Experiences

The Center for Academics, Careers, and Experiences is your connection to the resources you need to perform well academically and to maintain your health and wellness. 

More Resources…

• Academic Success
  • Advising and Orientation
  • English Language Support
• Accessibility Services
• Campus Ministry
• Career Services
• Disability Services
• Health
• Registrar
  • Commencement
• Resources for Cyclones in Need
• Tutoring
• Veterans Services
• Writing Collaboratory

Here at Centenary University, “We CU.” That means we are committed to helping you meet your highest potential through personalized attention. Find us in the Harris and Betts Smith Learning Center.