The FINAL 6IX: FYE keeping freshmen busy

At a certain point in a person’s life, they are given the option to leave the “nest” and attend college. No longer under the guidance of their parent or guardian, they must fend for themselves. Or do they? 
Executive Director of First and Second Year Experience, Zackeus Johnson, sought out to provide that guidance.“The purpose of First Year Experience is to ensure a seamless transition from high school to college for first year students.”
FYE consist of Mentors and Mentees with specific roles to follow. Johnson explains the expectations of Mentors and Mentees.
“FYE Mentors strive to assist mentees set goals, manage their time, network and build a sense of self-motivation…I expect mentees to utilize the advice given by mentors, ask questions, and serve as ambassadors for the Office of F/SYE so they can one day serve as a mentor to incoming first year students.” 
When asked about the purpose of the program, Falyn Hollins, a Business Marketing Major from Baton Rouge, LA and mentee, stated “I believe the purpose of First Year Experience is to help keep students on track by providing any assistance to make sure they graduate.”
Hollins disclosed “I’ve had a good experience with my mentor. He checks in with me and makes sure I’m informed on what’s going on around campus. He has been very beneficial.”
Likewise, Mentor Marlin Williams, a Senior Chemistry Pre- Med Major from New Orleans, La projected “We help Students with anything… with their classes… we help them with scholarships. We give them the extra push…  The motivation in the corner.” 
Williams delivers a word of advice by saying “My main advice is that you miss half of the shots you don’t take.” He also discussed in an interview that “Its okay that you don’t know anything”. He proclaimed that there shouldn’t be shame in ignorance because one can always learn just like those who had to learn before to be where they are now. 
FYE encourages “15 to Finish in 4”, a campaign that Originated at the University of Hawaii . Students are encouraged to enroll in no less than fifteen credit hours a semester, in order to graduate “on time” in four years. Staying on track of academics is a major part ofFirst and Second Year Experience.
In Freshman Seminar, the students are required to complete a JAG Plan. As stated by Zacheus Johnson “The J.A.G Plan stands for JAGUAR ACADEMIC GOALS Plan. This plan allows students to not only become involved, but utilized the wrap around services and participate in events and activities that will bring students out of their comfort zone and commit to institution.” 
The Final Six is a portion of the JAG Plan which requires the students to complete and attend 6 tasks or events. This includes Mid-Term Grab-N-Go, Think Win-Win, Ecumenical Service, Miss Southern’s Coronation, Collegiate Talks, and an International Walk. 
For more information, email [email protected] of checkout the First Year Experience social media outlets: @FYE_SUBR on Instagram or @FYEsubr on Twitter.