Freshman Intensive Studies

"A Unique Freshman Experience for Motivated Students!" Information Session 2012-2013

Goals of Today’s Program

   To learn about the FIS program and its academic requirements To answer questions about the program content and delivery To help you determine if FIS is right for you

What is FIS?

 A provisional admissions program for students with the potential to succeed in college, providing highly structured academic support during a student’s first year at FDU

FIS is not….

 A program for students whose learning disabilities require the specialized services provided by the Regional Center for LD students —(ex. Accommodations requiring more than extended time for tests)  A program for students who are not fully committed to academic achievement.

 A program with different academic standards and expectations than the rest of the university.

 A Pre-College program. The “FIS Difference” is in the additional support that the program provides.

History of FIS

  Began in 1984 at the College at Florham Over 1600 students have come through the FIS program in the past 28 years

The FIS Academic Program

      All students enter as Undeclared, regardless of their intended major at the time of application A reduced credit load during the first semester FIS-supported courses in disciplines such as English, Math, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and History An additional hour of supplemental instruction weekly in FIS-supported courses Mandatory and Optional Individual and Group Learning Assistance, Study Groups and Academic Skills Workshops Early Assessment and Midterm Grade Reporting

Additional Highlights of the FIS Program

  A first-year grant to assist students in tuition costs during their freshman year $2,000 annually renewable grant for students who successfully complete the FIS program

Special Features of the FIS Program

       Close collaboration between FIS faculty and staff Comprehensive Academic Advising Academic/Personal Skills Development and Study Strategies provided by the FIS Learning Specialists One-on-one learning assistance, study groups, and workshops FIS-only Freshman Seminars Small class size Learning Communities and Honors Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

 What is the difference between FIS and the Regional Center?

FIS

One-Year Program 85-90 new students each year Support Services provided as needed; Learning Specialist provides general academic skills development (Learning HOW to be a college student) Student to Staff Ratio of ~ 30:1 Students register with all other freshmen

Regional Center

Four-Year Program 30 new students each year 4 hours of required structured support each week, including 30 minutes of academic counseling; Learning Disabilities Specialists provide strategies which directly address a diagnosed learning disability Student to Staff Ratio of 4:1 Students given priority registration

Is FIS strictly a remedial program?

No. All FDU students (FIS and non-FIS) are placed into English, Math and Reading courses based upon university guidelines. Any student needing developmental course work in a specific area will receive it during their freshman year.

What grades must I earn to continue my studies at FDU?

All FDU students are expected to earn at least a 2.0 grade point average ("C") each semester.

 Students are placed on FIS Academic Alert at midsemester if their GPA falls below a 2.0. Students on alert are expected to meet with an FIS advisor to assist them in devising an action plan for improvement.  If the cumulative GPA is below a 2.0 at the end of the freshman year, the student is subject to suspension from the university. 2.0

What is the retention rate of students in the FIS program?

 University retention rate (~74%)  FIS retention rate since 2006 (75-79%)

Will FIS students be able to graduate in four years?

Fall Semester 10-14 credits earned * Winter Session Not Permitted Spring Semester Summer 1 (optional) 12-16 credits earned ** 6 credits earned * Based upon the number of pre-requisite courses required, if any.

** Credit limits determined based upon fall semester academic performance.

Students can earn between 28-36 credits during their first year; students with 32 credits are considered sophomores.

Can I receive need-based financial aid as an FIS student?

YES! All courses taken during the FIS year meet federal and state guidelines for financial aid.

What if I have questions…?

Admissions 973-443-8911 (Mr. Jake Norton) For questions related to Paperwork, Document Submission, Transcripts, Prior College Credits, Test Scores, Admissions Decision timeframes Student Life 973-443-8586 (Mr. Jesse Swartz) For questions related to New Student Orientation during the summer FIS 973-443-8715 (Ms. Mary Ford) For questions related to the FIS academic program and structure FIS Web site: www.fdu.edu/fis

Final Thoughts….

“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.”

--Johann Wolfgang von Goethe