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Freshman Intensive Studies "A Unique Freshman Experience for Motivated Students!". Information Session 2014-2015. Goals of Today’s Program. To learn about the FIS program and its academic requirements To answer questions about the program content and delivery
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Freshman Intensive Studies"A Unique Freshman Experience for Motivated Students!" Information Session 2014-2015
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 1700 students have come through the FIS program in the past 30 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 • Annual renewable grant (sophomore, junior, and senior year) for students who successfully complete the FIS program and maintain satisfactory academic progress
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
Freshman Intensive Studies • A program for freshmen who want to be… F irst I n Success
Frequently Asked Questions • What is the difference between FIS and the Regional Center?
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? * Based upon the number of pre-requisite courses required, if any. ** Credit limits determined based upon fall semester academicperformance. 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 973-443-8582 (Ms. Christine Gaydos) 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