First Year Experience

The Office of First Year Experience at Greensboro College assists students in their transition to college life by supporting their academic, social, and personal development within an environment that values diversity and respect.   We are dedicated to preparing students for success the moment they become a member of The Pride by providing a holistic experience for first-year students through the combined efforts of orientation, academic advising, residence life, first-year seminar, and athletics.  The goal of the Office of First Year Experience is to foster academic success, a seamless transition to college, and a sense of commitment and community to the College while serving as a central resource for all first-year students.

This is accomplished through the implementation of two major first-year programs:

• Preparing, Advising, and Welcoming Students (PAWS) is a one-day new student orientation program during the summer at which incoming students register for classes and learn about campus and academic life at Greensboro College, and get the necessary information to prepare for August check-in.
• Greensboro College Seminar (GCS) is an academic program designed to assist incoming students with their transition to Greensboro College. The program includes courses designed for first-year students, transfer students, and adult students.

In addition to PAWS, the First Year Experience office works with departments across campus to coordinate Welcome Week, which is designed to acclimate and welcome new students to campus and takes place in August at the beginning of the Fall semester.