First Year Experience (FYE) Program Information

The First Year Experience program at 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§is a comprehensive program to support all aspects of a student’s transition into the 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§community. The program focuses on both classroom and out of class resources and experiences to ensure the success of all new students. The First Year Seminar is a signature component of the FYE program and serves as the beginning course in the Integrative Studies curriculum. It guides your transition into 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§ classrooms and communities. Through a network of supportive resources, including a First Year Seminar, FYE nurtures your academic skills and passions, and immerses you in the life of the college. The program encourages you to explore yourself and world, your beliefs and values, and your educational and professional goals. It also asks you to think about what it means to be responsible to yourself, to Otterbein, and to local and global communities.

FYE Events Calendar

The transition into the 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§community involves many elements, both inside and outside of the classroom. Co-curricular experiences have always been valued as an important part of a student’s educational experience – so the FYE program has significant co-curricular programming to deliver on the overall program goals.

Each week, there are set events that peer mentors will present to students on successful tips for transitioning to college. First Year Students must attend three of these events in their first semester on campus.

Questions about events? Email fye@otterbein.edu or call 614-823-1624.

For more information about co-curricular programming or transition support, please contact Jennifer Bechtold, 614-823-1624, jbechtold@otterbein.edu or David Bahgat, 614-823-1520, dbahgat@otterbein.edu.

Student Learning Outcomes University Learning Goals (KMERI*)
Goal One: To connect you to the resources that promote belonging, wellness, personal development, and success in the first year. Responsible
Goal 1: Outcome 1: You will encounter resources that promote academic success and personal development. Responsible
Goal 1: Outcome 2: You will establish a productive relationship with a peer mentor and your course instructor. Engaged
Goal Two: To inspire intellectual curiosity and to introduce you to the richness and rigor of an 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§education. Engaged, Inquisitive
Goal 2: Outcome 1: You will develop skills essential to academic success and lifelong learning Inquisitive
Goal 2: Outcome 2: You will be introduced to the concepts of integrative learning and the mission and goals of the Integrative Studies Program Engaged
Goal Three: To explore diverse communities and identities and consider what it means to be a global citizen. Responsible
Goal 3: Outcome 1: You will consider what it means to be an 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§student, with reference to the history, culture and values of the institution. Responsible
Goal 3: Outcome 2: You will consider what it means to be a citizen of the 9i¹û¶³ÖÆ×÷³§community, the Westerville community, and beyond. Responsible
Goal 3: Outcome 3: You will encounter a variety of worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstance. Such difference include but are not limited to race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, age, religion, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, and geographic region. Responsible, Inquisitive

*NOTE:ÌýKMERI refers to Otterbein's learning goals. It stands forÌýKnowledgeable,ÌýMulti-literate,ÌýEngaged,ÌýResponsible, andÌýInquisitive. To learn more about KMERI,Ìývisit ourÌýUniversity Learning Goals page.