We are here to support you every step of the way by fostering an environment that promotes academic growth, wellness, exploration and community.
Start Strong
Your First-Year Experience
Starting college can be super exciting but also a bit overwhelming. You are at the beginning of your Boise State story. You will have your own unique set of first-year experiences, and we are here to celebrate the victories and support you through the struggles.
Along with the many individual first-year experiences, we also think about the entire community of first-year students and offer support that can benefit everyone. This is First-Year Experience: coordinated support, experiences and opportunities for all of our first-year students.
Make the most of your first five weeks
Weeks of Welcome
At Boise State, we don’t just welcome you during orientation or your first week. We keep on welcoming you throughout the beginning of your first semester. We understand that the first five weeks are a particularly important time for making connections and setting yourself up for success.
This week-by-week guide offers key dates, experiences and opportunities in the first five weeks of the semester. Set the goal of taking advantage of at least one opportunity per week.
Shortstack Shindig:August 19, 8:00 am – 10:30 am, The Quad
Kick off your semester right and grab some blue and orange pancakes on your way to or from class.
Fraternity and Sorority Life Fair:August 19, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Intramural Field
Learn about our local fraternity and sorority chapters and meet Greek life students while enjoying food and music.
On-Campus and Part-Time Job Fair:August 21, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, The Quad
Meet with campus and community employers looking for part-time employees.
Splatter Party:August 22, 9:00 pm-midnight, The Quad
Join the most epic dance party of the year! Wear white and you will leave painted with the colors of Bronco nation. Tickets are $5 in advance or $10 at the event.
Week 2
Key academic deadlines
August 30: Last day for students living on campus to downgrade residential meal plans.
Must-do Bronco Welcome events
Involvement Fair: August 20, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, The Quad Come check out the Involvement Fair to learn more about the latest involvement opportunities on and off campus from Student Organizations, local non-profit agencies and other campus groups. Enjoy free swag and fun activities, and learn how to get involved at Boise State University.
September 2: Labor Day (No classes, Boise State is closed.)
Must-do Bronco Welcome events
Be Well: Kickoff Pop-up: September 3, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm, The Quad
Kick off your semester with well-being tools and resources. Meet the Be Well Peer Health.
Field Night: September 5, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, The Quad
Fun event FREE for all students during Bronco Welcome Week with games, obstacle courses, inflatables, snacks and more. Come out for a good time and some competition.
Academic and campus opportunities
This is a great time in the semester to visit one of our Learning Centers.
Working on an essay assignment? Book an appointment at the Writing Center.
Remember, we have five learning centers in the College of Arts and Sciences alone.
Week 4
Must-do Bronco Welcome events
Here for You Fest: September 10, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, The Quad
Swing by and grab a snack or refreshment, get connected with different campus and community resources that benefit your mental health, challenge a friend to a massive blow-up challenge obstacle course race or spend some time with our four-legged furry friends from Helping Idaho Dogs.
Tips for success
Connect with professors: Introduce yourself during office hours or after class. Building a rapport can be helpful if you need support later on.
Balance work and play: While academics are important, make sure to find time for relaxation and social activities. Maintaining a balance is key to avoiding burnout.
Set goals: Whether academic, personal or social, set short-term goals to keep yourself motivated and on track.
Take care of your health: Pay attention to your physical and mental well-being. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise and seek support if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Week 5
Tips for success
Start preparing for midterms: Midterms are often just a few weeks away. Begin reviewing your notes, readings and any material that will likely be on the exams.
Refine your study techniques: By now, you should have a sense of what study methods work best for you. Make any necessary adjustments to improve your effectiveness.
Join or form study groups: If you haven’t already, consider forming or joining study groups with classmates to review material together.
Organize your notes and materials: Make sure all your class notes, assignments and resources are organized and easily accessible.
Get involved: If you haven’t already, consider joining a club or organization. This is a great way to meet new people and explore your interests.
Adjust as needed: If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with your workload, re-evaluate how you’re managing your time. Consider cutting back on non-essential activities if necessary.
Look toward the rest of the semester: Begin thinking about your plans for the rest of the semester. This includes academic goals, any projects or papers that will require significant time and any social or extracurricular commitments.
First-Year Success Toolkit
In this toolkit, we have identified four key ingredients for success: academic growth, campus and community engagement, major and career exploration and personal development. These ingredients, when combined, form a recipe for first-year success.
Take some time to explore these resources, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly if you have questions.
