Freshman Interest Groups
West Chester University
Contact Info
Lawrence Center 262
West Chester, PA 19383
610-436-3544
Fax: 610-436-2600
FIGs@wcupa.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Freshman Interest Group (FIG)?
Freshman Interest Groups gather students in small groups (24-35) to live and learn together by taking a pair of classes with the same group of students during the fall semester of their first year at WCU. The two classes are based on a common theme. This arrangement helps ease the transition from high school to college by helping students make friends more quickly and connect with University faculty and staff. Students who are living on campus and commuting can both participate in the program.
What are the different FIGs I can choose from?
- American Outlook (recommended for Early Grade Prep majors and pre-Majors)
- Approaches to Health and Wellness (recommended for Health Science Majors and Pre-Majors)
- Celebrating Difference (for all majors)
- Economic Realities (recommended for Business Majors and Pre-Majors)
- Global Linkages (recommended for Political Science majors and all majors)
- Leadership Academy (recommended for Pre-Major students)
- Multicultural Voices (for all majors)
- Pop Culture (recommended for all majors)
- Sustainable Lives (for all majors)
Why do some FIGs require a certain SAT score?
FIGs that include a WRT120 class as one of their two classes require an SAT-Writing score between 490-610 because that is the SAT-Writing score required for the WRT120 class. If your SAT-Writing score does not fall in that range, you cannot participate in those particular FIGs. The following FIGs require your SAT-Writing score be between 490-610:
- Approaches to Health and Wellness
- Leadership Academy
- Pop Culture
Do I automatically get selected to a FIG if I send in my application to WCU?
No. You must complete a special electronic registration form for the Freshman Interest Groups, which will be available on the FIGs website by the beginning of February. Once received, your application will be reviewed by the Freshman Interest Groups Committee. Students who qualify for their selected Freshman Interest Group will be admitted on a first-come/first-serve basis. Your registration in the Freshman Interest Group you selected will be confirmed by e-mail or letter.
How do I register for a Freshman Interest Group?
Do I get to choose my roommate?
Yes. Additionally, your roommate does not have to be participating in the Freshman Interest Group program. Just follow the directions you received with your housing information on how to request a specific roommate or choose your roommate.
What are the benefits of a Freshman Interest Group?
- Students agree that participating in a Freshman Interest Group improved their academic performance.
- Students appreciate how the Freshman Interest Groups provided a ready network of potential friendships.
- Students welcomed the opportunity to build group skills in both a residential and classroom setting.
- Students note that participation in the Freshman Interest Groups helped their adjustment to university life and would participate in the experience again if given the chance.
- Students welcomed the opportunity to build group skills in both a residential and classroom setting.
- Faculty members teaching in the Freshman Interest Groups support innovative programs on campus.
Is there any extra cost for joining Freshman Interest Groups?
No. There is no additional cost for joining a FIG.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Prof. Ann Colgan, acolgan@wcupa.edu for questions related to academics.
Shelley Siedzikowski, ssiedzikow@wcupa.edu for questions related to student programs.
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