First Year Experience

First Year Eexperience Logo

First Year Experience works to create and deliver programs and initiatives designed to help students make the most of their first year and beyond at FGCU. Our office provides students with the tools they need to succeed by helping them to get engaged, get adjusted, build skills, and be curious. Learn more about our programs below and be sure to check out the An Eagles Guide to a Successful First Year for the Class of 2025!

2021-2022 FYE Guide

Eagle View Orientation

College is an exciting time, and Eagle View Orientation provides the gateway to making the most of your FGCU experience.

Immersive Experiences

Immerse yourself in a learning opportunity with your peers to have an unforgettable experience before classes even begin.

Eagles in 25

Jump start your involvement with the Eagles in 25 program and learn what being an Eagle is all about.

Signature Events

In FYE, we host memorable events throughout the year with campus partners.

Soar in 4

This program provides incoming first-year students an additional incentive to stay on track to a 4-year degree and secure a job.

Eagles Read

Get engaged with a common book that all first-year students will be reading and have the chance to participate in book events on campus.

Mentoring Programs

Learn about the different mentoring programs that are offered on campus and get connected early on.

The University Transition

Enroll in a course that is designed to make sure that you are successful from your first semester through graduation.

Eagle Advantage

Get prepared for the complete college experience by getting academic, social, and personal support.

Staff Directory

Name	Department	Email	Phone
Ney Arias	Senior Director, First Year Experience & Retention Programs	narias@fgcu.edu	239-590-7111
Tabitha Dawes	Director, Eagle View Orientation	tdawes@fgcu.edu	239-590-7744
	Coordinator, Parent & Family Programs
Christina Kreiger	Director, Retention & Engagement Programs	ckreiger@fgcu.edu	239-590-7110
Cheryl McCormick	Administrative Specialist	cmccormick@fgcu.edu	239-590-7473
	Program Assistant, Eagle View Orientation
	Coordinator, Retention & Engagement Programs
Lindsay Rushworth	Coordinator, Mentoring Programs	lrushworth@fgcu.edu	239-745-4518
Destiny Washington	Coordinator, Retention & Engagement Programs	dnwashington@fgcu.edu	239-745-4590
Amber Whitaker	Coordinator, Eagle View Orientation	awhitaker@fgcu.edu	239-590-7898

We’re here to answer your questions.

First Year Experience

10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, Florida 33965

239-590-7464