Florida Gulf Coast University's First Year Reading Project introduces incoming students to the expectations of learning at an institution of higher education. All first-year students read a common book during the summer, usually a novel or work of non-fiction, and complete a writing assignment regarding the book. The book is discussed in Composition I and II classes and in the First Year Humanities Seminar in the fall semester, and sometimes in other classes.

The First Year Reading project engages students in critical thinking and writing skills, preparing them for a rigorous academic experience, and connects them to the campus community so that they are supported in this experience. In this way, students become a part of the community at Florida Gulf Coast University and come prepared for our unique learning experience. 
 
The First Year Reading Project began in 2003 with James McBride's The Color of Water. Since then, FGCU has included a wide variety of books and authors in the program. To get information on each project, click on the links to the left.