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First Year Experience (FYE)

Make the most of your first year at the University of Guelph-Humber!

First-Year Experience logo

The First Year Experience (FYE) program eases your transition into university! Connect online with other new students in your program throughout the summer. Each FYE Group is led by an FYE Leader, a current student in your program who is excited to meet you and welcome you to the University! They’ll share important dates, what to expect in classes, and how to make friends – ask them anything! Accepted your offer for 2024-25? You will be added to your FYE group in June 2024!

How FYE has helped past students.

It’s (FYE) helped me by informing me about everything I need to know to successfully start my first year. I’ve received answers to my questions and learnt about important resources, dates, and events. I feel prepared (and excited!) to start my first year.

FYE is an amazing resource for help. I’ve attended other institutions where it was hard to get support Guelph Humber goes above beyond. I feel connected to the University. Having peer advisors and an academic advisor has made my transition to university very easy.

(FYE has) Connected me to people in my program and making me feel like a part of the community.

FYE has helped me, all the info being posted onto the stream gives me the info I wouldn't have otherwise found. I also feel like when I have a Program specific question, I can't find online I have someone who is able to answer it. The FYE program helps ease my nerves going into my first year.

Join Your FYE Group!

As a new UofGH student, you’re automatically enrolled in the FYE program. Check your Gryph Mail for your first email from Student Life, with an invitation to join your FYE Group on Microsoft Teams!

Once you log into Teams, look at the left-side menu and click Teams, where you’ll see your FYE group with the name of your FYE Leader in the title (ex. Justice Studies FYE 2023 – Issa’s Group). Read through the posts and check back every few days for updates and important info. And of course, message your FYE Leader anytime with questions.

Contact Student Life at life@guelphhumber.ca if you have trouble accessing your FYE group.

Meet your FYE Team for 2023-24!

Business

Alisha
Alisha
Year: Second
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part would have to be the welcoming environment! It helps me to interact with a lot of peers as well as a great space to focus when completing work for my courses. In addition, there is always someone to turn to when in need of help.
What is your favourite part of your program: My favourite part is the close-knit classes. It provides a chance to ask your professors for any help or inquiries.
 
Garrett
Garrett
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: I would say the #1 tip I have for new students is to always read the course material/textbook before attending your lecture. It helps you stay on task throughout the semester and enables you to ask meaningful questions during class that will help you throughout the course.
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: I love the flexibility being a student at UofGH offers. I can cater my course schedule to my preferences in terms of the time I attend classes, as well as the days I attend class. Additionally, I love being able to get two accreditations in the span of four years. I feel I am making the most of my time here at UofGH.
 
Menahil
Menahil
Year: Second
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part of being a student at UofGH is the different societies at Guelph-Humber and the clubs offered at Humber as well. Everyone is always so welcoming and easy to talk to, and they’re always putting on different events and such.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: Because these are the people you will meet during orientation. Orientation is one of the main places you start to make friends and get to know the people in your program who you’ll spend the next few years with.
 
Tushtee
Tushtee
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: Get involved! Join societies or clubs! It helps you get acquainted with many people and makes a new place feel more familiar. Plus, it looks good on resumes.
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favorite part of being a UofGH student is the close-knit community. Everybody is friendly, so you get to know many people, including professors. And since GH is connected to Humber, you can get access to delicious food.
 
Valerie
Valerie
Year: Second
Best piece of advice for new students: Plan ahead. Make sure you know where all your classes and resources are before your first day. Read your course outline located in the content section of your class, to know what you can expect for the year and prepare for it. Finally, especially if you are commuting, make sure to plan your trip correctly so that you are always on time.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: As a first-year student it is important to have someone they can trust and feel comfortable around. FYE groups provide helpful advice and answer many questions for these students which helps with the transition to post secondary.
 

Community Social Services

Dallas
Dallas
Year: Second
Best piece of advice for new students: Don’t stress—just take each day at a time. Time management during your first year can definitely be tricky (I speak from experience)! Utilizing your resources, such as a planner or whiteboard calendar, can definitely make it easier! Also socializing—making friends in your classes and joining at least one extracurricular can help you adjust to the university life!
Why should students participate in their FYE group: Incoming students should participate in their FYE group because it’s your additional resource to make use of! You can ask us questions and engage with other students using the Microsoft Teams outlet. FYE Leaders will often post updates about things going on in-school, important dates, what to expect in your classes, as well as vast opportunities you can take advantage of as a new student!
 
Hailey
Hailey
Year: Third
Why should students participate in their FYE group: FYE groups are a great way to have support in your first year while also connecting with peers. Additionally, having an FYE leader can be assuring when you have questions about your program or Guelph Humber in general.
What’s your favourite part of your program: My favourite part of my program is the amazing peers and professors. Every time I go to class I am greeted by many friendly faces and always feel connected.
 

Early Childhood Studies

Shahana
Shahana
Year: Second
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: The close-knit community and the friendly environment :)
Why should students participate in their FYE group: This is an amazing opportunity to make new friends in your year and see all the services and events Guelph-Humber/Humber has to offer.
 

 

Taylor
Taylor
Year: Second
Best piece of advice for new students: Make time for self-care (breaks are important!) and don't forget to have fun.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: It is a great way to meet people and so helpful with any questions or concerns that students may have. It also keeps you up to date with events, deadlines, and opportunities in the GH community.
 

Justice Studies

Ahmed
Ahmed
Year: Second
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part of being a UofGH student has to be the services provided, namely, the placement/internship program in addition to FYE and Learning Support Peers, amongst student services programs. I have friends who do not get this in their programs at their respective schools, and it makes me feel very lucky to have it here. FYE not only helped me through my first year, but it made it an enjoyable time where I'm eager to learn and grow. I did not realize it back then but having such a system at my disposition made transition much more fluent.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: FYE groups have people from different levels of knowledge, experiences, background, and everyone has learned things along the way. Similarly, everyone joins with their worries, expectations, goals, and unknowns. By participating in their respective FYE groups, students will be given the opportunity to share experiences, ask questions others may have been too shy to ask, network, meet classmates, and most importantly, learn from those who have done it in the past.
 
Alex
Alex
Year: Fourth
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: Being a student at a school that has a strong sense of community and is tight knit.
What’s your favourite part of your program: The ability to learn and become acquainted with criminal laws and theories as to why individuals commit crimes.
 
Issa
Issa
Year: Third
Best piece of advice for new students: Don't take anything too seriously! Be able to work hard and still enjoy your time here. Just remember to smile and laugh throughout this journey.
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: Being able to make use of all Humber's resources. You get the best of both GH and Humber!
 
Maaz
Maaz
Year: Fourth
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: The community is really friendly and supportive! I've yet to find myself in a position where I've had problems and had no support. Whether it's from my peers, my alumni, my professors, or even from other programs, there is always someone willing to help out.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: The reason that many people will tell you is that it helps you make connections, but I would add to that to say that it's a good place to start breaking out of your shell. One way or another, you will have to interact with people who you know nothing about many times throughout your GH journey, and it can help to make connections when you know everyone else is just as lost as you.
 
Priya
Priya
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: Organization is key to success! Make sure you are planning out your schedule ahead of time. Invest in a weekly planner and write down all your important dates and events, that way you never miss anything. Most importantly take it one step at a time and have FUN!
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favorite part is that I am always learning something new. I love how close-knit the community is and how easy it is to make friends.
 
Ruth
Ruth – Sr. FYE
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: My number one tip for new students is to get involved so they can make the most out of their university experience! Students can get involved by joining a club or society, getting a campus job, and attending workshops and events. If I could redo my first year, I would join a club and participate in more activities.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: Students should participate in their FYE group because it is a terrific opportunity to meet new people, be informed, make friends, and stay connected to UofGH before they even step on campus. The FYE groups are safe and positive spaces where students can interact, ask questions to their FYE Leader or peers, and connect with their peers.
 
Sarah
Sarah
Year: Fourth
What is your favourite part of being a UofGH student: My favourite part of being a UofGH student is the community! It is so great to go to a school where there are so many like-minded people. I love being able to discuss topics I am interested in with my fellow classmates - some of which have become my best friends!
Why should students participate in their FYE group: I believe participating in your FYE group is essential and a great way to get some guidance in your first year. In your first year, you most likely do not know anyone. With this, it can be quite difficult to reach out. However, your FYE group makes it so easy to reach out and ask any questions. In addition, you will meet other first years in the same boat - a great opportunity to make connections! The first year is hard to navigate, but your FYE Leaders have your back!
 
Tenisha
Tenisha – Sr. FYE
Year: Fourth
What advice would you give your first-year self: The number one tip that I would give to my first-year self is to go to events and get involved on campus. Getting involved on campus is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and gain valuable experience that can help you in your future career. Additionally, attending events can help you feel more connected to your school community and make your university experience more enjoyable. Becoming involved has helped me build a deeper connection to the Guelph-Humber community, which has allowed me to give back to the community. Furthermore, being part of a community can provide you with a sense of belonging and a support system during your academic journey.
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part about being a UofGH student is the tight-knit community; every time I come to Guelph-Humber; it feels like I am at my second home. The faculty and students are always welcoming and supportive, which makes the campus feel like a safe and comfortable environment to learn and grow in. This has provided me with the space to explore my interests and passions without fear of judgment and has allowed me to form meaningful connections with my peers and professors alike. I hope Guelph-Humber will allow you to feel at home there, without judgment, and to make it feel like your own.
 

Kinesiology

Beatrice
Beatrice
Year: Second
Best piece of advice for new students: My number one tip that I would give to new students is to be comfortable with the idea of getting out of your comfort zone! Find and adopt good habits that help you stay focused, disciplined, and organized with balancing schoolwork and your personal life. Another word of advice is to be open to making new friends! Having a solid group makes all the difference especially in your daily experience in and out of the classroom!
Why should students participate in their FYE group: Students should participate in their FYE group because its a great gateway to make and build connections with your fellow classmates. Ultimately the people in your group are the same people who you will be with for the next four years of your academic journey so participating in these FYE group activities are great for making friends and getting to know one another.
 
Justin
Justin
Year: Fourth
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part of being a UofGH student is the many opportunities the school provides to students to be successful in their academic journey. There are FYE leaders that help with the transition to university, there are also academic advisors specific to students' programs that help in creating an educational plan, and career professionals who help plan for after graduation.
What’s your favourite part of your program: My favourite part of the Kinesiology program at UofGH is the built-in workplace experience that it offers. It offers a theory base and application of knowledge that can help students transition from school to the workplace after graduation.
 
Nathan
Nathan
Year: Second
Best piece of advice for new students: Ask questions as much as you can! Having been a first-year student myself, I know first-hand that initially going into university can be a little nerve-racking. I was a pretty shy student, but I promise the UofGH community is super welcoming and always there to help with your needs. Asking questions is an underrated tip I wish I started to do sooner during my first year. I would definitely recommend asking questions around campus to really make the most out of your experience at the University of Guelph-Humber.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: I believe the FYE group provides incoming students with a lot of knowledge and really gives them a head-start on life at the University of Guelph-Humber. Having someone else who has already gone through the first-year experience at UofGH can be a major bonus to people active in their FYE groups. The FYE group also provides a lot of important events, dates, and deadlines to keep you on track with what's happening at the university. These reminders can be super helpful sometimes!
 

Media and Communication Studies

Bella
Bella
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: Get involved! We have a variety of clubs and societies that cater to different interests, hobbies or passions!
Why should students participate in their FYE group: Participating in the FYE group is a great way to meet new people. Throughout the summer, try your best to get involved and participate in any discussions! FYE is also a great resource to use as we post reminders and notify you of events going on in our community!
 
Jasmine
Jasmine
Year: Fourth
Best piece of advice for new students: Put yourself out there and try everything you can! There are so many awesome opportunities on campus to gain fun experiences and meet friends, but it all starts with getting involved!
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: My favourite part of being a UofGH student is the close-knit and supportive community we have here. The best thing about being a student here is that thanks to our small class sizes professors know your names and are eager to interact with you one-on-one all the time. A lot of my professors have served as mentors and provided me with extremely beneficial learning experiences. This is something that is truly unique to GH!
 
Philemon
Philemon
Year: Fourth
Why should students participate in their FYE group: I believe it is so important to participate in your FYE group because it is the first interaction new students get to have with people, they may have classes with in the fall so starting off as early as possible can ensure that your university career starts on a strong note. Not only that but the rapid amount of information that new students need to know can be overwhelming so having access to the easier to digest announcements from your FYE group leaders can make your life much easier.
What’s your favourite part of your program: I love the marketing and graphic design classes. As a person who loves to use visuals to convey a message and achieve the goals of a strategy, these types of classes allow me to do what I love in the media and marketing space. That’s why I specifically picked Digital Marketing and Social Media because it is all about this!
 

Psychology

Damilola
Damilola
Year: Second
Favourite part about being a UofGH student: I find the campus environment and the class sizes to be my favourite part of being a UofGH student. I really like that the campus atmosphere. The abundance of greenery, especially at the Humber Arboretum with its diverse selection of trees, plants, and flowers makes it an enjoyable place to spend time. Also, it's a great way to decompress after class or before a test to take a walk and enjoy the surroundings. In terms of class sizes, I really appreciate the smaller class sizes which this university offers as I feel they provide a better learning experience. With fewer students, I have better access to my professors and find the classes to be more interactive and engaging.
Why should students participate in their FYE group: I think students should participate in their FYE Groups because doing so will help them adjust to the University Guelph-Humber environment, build, and maintain social connections, and expand their peer network. It also provides an avenue to exchange information and resources with other students in their program and learn about campus activities that may interest them. Overall, it is a fantastic opportunity for students to make the most out of their time at the University of Guelph-Humber.
 
Ricky
Ricky
Year: Third
Why should students participate in their FYE group: FYE facilitates a safe space for new University students to ask questions and raise concerns. Participating in the FYE groups serves as a safety net and guidance for those who are transitioning into post-secondary studies. No one has the answers to everything, not even your FYE Leaders or professors, however, together we may be better equipped in tackling issues and finding the appropriate answers and measures. Also, FYE groups are filled with first years in many other programs, which is an opportunity to meet new and amazing people.
What’s your favourite part of your program: I love that my program allows me the artistic freedom in projects and assignments to tie what we are currently learning with something that is intrinsically motivating. For example, in my free time, I've been looking at how video games and virtual reality can be paired with physiotherapy to facilitate neurogenesis and neurorehabilitation. This is a soft approach to my proposal for my upcoming thesis stream in 4th year. Prior to university, this concept would've been alien to me, however in understanding proper research methods and applications, I've been more emboldened and inspired to look thoroughly at what interests me in more than one way.
 

Winter 2024 Events

See something you like below? Click here to register!


Mastering Your Money: A Financial Literacy Workshop
Thursday, January 25, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
GH 125 and Microsoft Teams

Unlock the keys to financial success. Join our tailored financial literacy workshop with Student Financial Services. Navigate the university financial world confidently as we delve into budgeting, student loans, debt management, and Guelph-Humber Scholarships and Bursaries.


Kinks, Coils & Confidence: Embracing Black Hair
Monday, February 12, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
LRC2123 and Microsoft Teams

Register for this event using this link.

Celebrate the beauty and diversity of natural hairstyles in the Black community at this workshop tailored for black-identifying first-year students. This collaborative workshop with the Black Student Success and Engagement program (BSSE) will provide a unique space for sharing the journey of embracing and caring for natural hair by a local hairstylist. No more in-person slots? No need to fear missing out, you can view the facilitated portion through Microsoft Teams.


Cupid’s Creations: Crafting Valentine’s Day Cards
Wednesday, February 14, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
North Atrium

This Valentine’s Day, students can take a break from the hustle of midterms to make cards for those who mean the most! Drop-in between classes to grab some materials or stick around to visit with an FYE Leader and other first-year students, whatever works for you.


Tacos & Trivia: Test Your Knowledge and Taste Buds
Tuesday, March 12, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
GH 122 and Microsoft Teams

Enjoy this afternoon full of trivia, tacos, and fun! The trivia segment will cover a range of topics including pop culture, history, and some fun facts. It will be open to those who can’t join in-person and want to still participate with other remote participants. For those in-person, enjoy some tacos in a relaxing setting while socializing with other first-year students.


Art Tutorial
Wednesday, April 3, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
GH 122 and Microsoft Teams

This tutorial is designed for folks to have a chance to relax and express their creativity as they head into the final exam season. In-person participants will follow a painting video tutorial to craft their own masterpiece. Those joining online will be able to engage in drawing activities.