First-Year Forward

Our Mission

First-Year Forward (FYF) is dedicated to supporting the first-year student transition through success coaching, academic skill building, and referrals to campus resources.

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.

Awarded$225,00in scholarships
745coaching and skills appointments in 23-24 AY
First-Year Forward Student in a one-on-one coaching appointment
Completed over1,235coaching meetings with first-year students

Students in FYF:

  • see increases in their GPA
  • are more likely to remain at UWM
  • more likely to perform better in their courses!
  • experience greater connections with campus resources
  • less likely to go on academic probation after their first semester
  • more satisfied with their first-year experience!

Program Benefits

Receive one-on-one guidance and support from a first-year student expert.

Connect to valuable campus and community resources.

Earn a $500 scholarship!

Develop new skills to support your personal and academic growth!

Meet our Team

Koukab Al Gharibi
First-Year Success Coach

Lana Platz
First-Year Success Coach

What Do Students Say

My Coach was someone there to listen and help me. They made me feel heard and supported me during the crazy fall semester. 

First-Year Forward StudentSpring 2023

My Coach talked with me about my struggles as a new student and how to overcome them.

First-Year Forward StudentSpring 2023

My Coach provided resources and comfort. She made me feel supported, and I could meet with her often.

First-Year Forward StudentSpring 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an appointment with my First-Year Coach?

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 30 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 Navigate! 

Am I eligible to join First-Year Forward (FYF)?

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  

What is First-Year Coach?

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

How do I earn the First-Year Forward Scholarship?

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 2024 and spring 2025 semesters.

· Complete a minimum of 24 credit hours by the end of the spring 2025 semester.

· Achieve a 2.00 cumulative GPA in the fall 2024 and spring 2025 semesters.