First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program is a free opportunity for first-generation college students to form meaningful connections with one another, faculty, and staff as well as learn about academic and social resources at ¶¶Òõ̽̽ through a first-gen lens. The First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program is open to students who will be full-time first-year students during the 2025 Fall semester.

Note: ¶¶Òõ̽̽ defines a first-generation student as a student for whom no parent or guardian has completed a bachelor's degree from a U.S. college or university.

The First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program, will help students:Ìý

  • Navigate College Life: Gain familiarity with essential resources to successfully manage both the academic and social aspects of transitioning to college.
  • Build Community: Connect with a supportive network of first-generation students, faculty, and staff committed to your academic success.
  • Prepare for the Fall and Spring Semesters: Participate in engaging activities, interactive workshops, and educational and social events designed to set you up for success.

What will happen during the First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program?Ìý

You will:

  • Move in Early: Settle into your first-year residence hall before other new students (Sunday, August 17th).
  • Receive a Warm Welcome: Meet student leaders, staff, and faculty who are also first-generation college students.
  • Get Acquainted: Spend three days building connections, meeting peers, and becoming familiar with campus life.

We will:

  • Prepare You for the Transition: Discuss what to expect during Orientation and the first few weeks of college, offering practical tips and advice.
  • Introduce ¶¶Òõ̽̽ Academics: Provide an overview of classroom expectations, working with advisors, and accessing academic support services.
  • Share Success Strategies: Cover essential skills like studying, managing meals, finding jobs, doing laundry, staying healthy, staying active, and building a supportive community.
  • Explore Together: Guide you through campus and introduce key resources in Burlington.

Then, on Thursday, August 21st you will join the rest of the first-year class in ¶¶Òõ̽̽’s formal orientation program.

What If I can't participate in the First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program?Ìý

The First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program is not the only opportunity to connect with FirstGen@¶¶Òõ̽̽! There is FirstGen@¶¶Òõ̽̽ programming throughout the academic year to help support first-gen students through their journey at ¶¶Òõ̽̽. Reach out to FirstGen@uvm.edu and we will help you get involved!Ìý

Ìý

Eligibility:Ìý

The First Scholars Pre-Orientation Program is open to students who are:

  • full-time first year students, and

  • first-generation (a student for whom no parent or guardian has completed a bachelor's degree from a U.S. college or university), and

  • starting classes in the Fall of 2025.

Application Timeline:Ìý

April 14, 2025: Applications Open

May 12, 2025: Application CloseÌý

May 26, 2025: Decisions ReleasedÌý

Program Dates:

August 17, 2025 - August 20, 2025