First-year students need someone in their corner who can provide continuous support as they navigate a new environment. First-Year Forward matches you with a First-Year Coach who will support your individual needs, personal interest, and academic goals.



Study or Relax In a Space Just For YOU!

Skill Building Series!

Do you receive accommodations or services through the ARC? Check out the opportunity below!  

Upcoming FYF Events
Meet Our First-Year Forward Team

All students in FYF must meet with their Coach at least once a semester. However, many students will meet with their First-Year Coach monthly or bi-weekly, depending on the student’s specific needs and goals.

Meetings are typically 45 minutes and can be completed in person or virtually.

In-person meetings are in the Student Success Center (Bolton 120). You can check in with the front desk upon arrival. Virtual meetings will be over Microsoft Teams. Your Coach will send you a link and download instructions before your meeting.

Click on these instructions to schedule a meeting with your FYF Coach on Navigate360! 

The transition from high school to college, especially at a large institution, can be an overwhelming experience. First-Year Forward is an invite-only program designed to provide continuous support to new UWM students.

Students eligible for the program will receive an invitation to participate before attending New Student Orientation. For more information or to confirm your eligibility, please email chenowed@uwm.edu  

First-Year Success Coaches are dedicated to helping with your high school to college transition by providing one-on-one support to enhance your Panther experience. Your Coach is excited to assist with the following:

ACADEMIC & ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS:
· Tutoring and Exam Reviews
· Note-Taking Methods
· Effective Study Skills
· Campus Technology

LIFE SKILLS:
· Time Management
· Overcoming Procrastination
· Goal Setting

CAMPUS REFERRALS & RESOURCES:
· Student Well-Being Resources
· Accessibility Resource Center
· Dean of Students
· Scholarships and FAFSA

STUDENT LIFE RESOURCES:
· On-Campus Jobs
· Campus Events
· Student Organizations
· Multicultural Student Centers
· LGBTQ+ Resource Center
· MKE Community

REGISTRATION RESOURCES:
· Enrollment Support
· Important Dates & Deadlines
· University Policies and Procedures

A $500 scholarship, awarded in your sophomore year, is your incentive for doing the right things to succeed at UWM. To earn the scholarship:

· Meet with your First-Year Coach at least once in the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters.

· Complete a minimum of 24 credit hours by the end of the spring 2024 semester.

· Achieve a 2.00 cumulative GPA in the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters.