First Year Experience
The First Year Experience (FYE) at Macalester College fosters a cohesive and supportive transition to college by integrating academic and co-curricular experiences that promote student learning, belonging, and success. Through cross-campus collaboration, we create inclusive environments that empower first year students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Co-Directors of the First Year Experience
- Laurie Adamson, MA
- Executive Director in the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement
- [email protected]
- 651-696-6311
- she/her
- Louisa Bradtmiller, PhD
- Associate Dean of Advising and Professor of Environmental Studies
- [email protected]
- 651-696-6837
First Year Courses
Every new student enrolls in a First Year Course during their first semester. These classes are capped at 16 students to foster close interaction, discussion, and meaningful connections with faculty and peers. First Year Courses are designed to support your transition to college-level learning. Most emphasize writing and research skills, offering hands-on experience with academic expectations at Macalester. The courses also include support from trained student preceptors who provide peer mentorship and guidance throughout the semester. While rooted in academic departments, these courses include shared components that reflect the needs and interests of incoming students and help ease the transition to college academics.
Orientation
Orientation is your official welcome to Macalester and the starting point of your First Year Experience. Through a mix of interactive sessions, small group conversations, and campus traditions, you’ll get to know your peers, explore campus resources, and begin to build your community. Orientation is designed to help you feel connected, informed, and confident as you begin your Macalester journey.
Academic Advising
Academic advising at Macalester is a personalized, collaborative process that supports your academic, personal, and professional growth. Each student is paired with a faculty advisor, who is also the instructor of your First Year Course, who helps you navigate course selection, reflect on your goals, and connect with campus resources. This initial advisor supports you until you declare a major, at which point most students will transition to a primary advisor in your major department. As your interests develop, you can also add additional advisors tied to a second major, minor, or concentration.
Living on Campus
Living on campus is more than just where you sleep, it’s where community begins. At Macalester, the residential experience is intentionally designed to support your growth as a student and as a person. Through LIFE@MAC, you’ll explore identity, build relationships, practice communication and conflict skills, and connect with the broader Mac community. With support from student and professional staff, and through opportunities like community circles, shared meals, and events, you’ll develop meaningful connections and gain skills that will serve you in and beyond the classroom.