All new freshmen at UW-Eau Claire have the opportunity to take a First Year Experience (FYE) course. These are small sections of regular university courses (English composition, Math, Biology, Sociology, History, etc.) that are open only to freshmen. Each class has a student mentor as well as an experienced faculty member eager to help students in their transition to college.

Students meet their FYE instructor and fellow classmates during Phase II Orientation prior to the start of classes in the fall. This casual atmosphere helps students make connections with classmates, faculty member, and mentor.

Students in FYE classes participate in out-of-class activities together. These vary, but can include educational events such as forums, concerts and plays, or social development such as bowling or pizza.

As one student summed up the FYE course: "It helped me make friends, it provided greater understanding of university life and was just a really positive experience."