First-Year Interest Groups
What is a FIG?
A First-Year Interest Group or FIG offers an opportunity to join an academic community of 20-23 students who share a common interest and enroll in two or more courses in their first semester at TWU. These groups are specially designed to support first-year students who are not part of a living-and-learning community.
Why Join a FIG?
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All FIGs are capped at 20-23 students per class, which offers more faculty interactions and leads to stronger academic performance and engagement with coursework.
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Each FIG is assigned at least one peer mentor to guide and support first-year students as you navigate your first year of college.
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Get to know your professor outside of class! Each FIG will offer two or more co-curricular activities – such as study groups, guest speakers and social events – to further enrich your learning experience and foster a sense of community on campus.
You don’t need to live on campus to find a community. FIGs are open to students living on or off campus who are not already part of living and learning communities (LLCs) to help you foster a sense of belonging at TWU.
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FIGs provide a platform to connect with peers, top faculty and staff, building valuable networks that support the pursuit of academic and professional goals.
You Will Learn To:
- Develop meaningful friendships and connections
- Stay on track with their coursework
- Foster better study habits
- Network with faculty and upperclassmen
- Peer mentor
- How to find academic resources that aid long-term success
Through your FIG, you’ll make friends with students who share your academic interests, connect with top TWU faculty and have a student mentor to guide you through your first semester.
How to Sign Up
If you are interested in enrolling in a FIG, talk with their academic advisor(s) during summer orientation.
What FIGs Are Offered?
Students in similar programs or who hold a common interest form each FIG.
Life as a FIG
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Page last updated 8:45 AM, July 15, 2025