First-Year Experience Programs

First-Year Student Experience Programming

These programs aim to promote positive student experience both inside and outside of the classroom through strategic programming that emphasizes cultural integration including academic and social adjustment, personal connections, and personalized support. We invite you to connect with us, learn about available resources, and inform the ISSC how we can enhance your first-year student experience at ASU.

During the semester, we do a lot of engagement activities and opportunities to volunteer with us. Please review the programs below and let us know if you have any questions or if you would like to volunteer with us. We welcome new ideas and recommendations for how we can support first-year students better. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any ideas or recommendations.

First-Year Friday

First-Year Friday is a program designed for first year undergraduate students to connect with each other and learn tips on adjusting to new life and navigating resources at ASU. This event is hosted bi-weekly during the school sessions.
Through this program, you can connect with peers, student leaders, and ISSC/ASU staff; learn about U.S. culture, campus resources, and involvement opportunities; and inform the ISSC team to help enhance your first-year experience.

ISSC Cafe

Come enjoy a welcoming space to connect, relax, and meet new friends! Stop by between classes to say hello and savor a selection of coffee and snacks inspired by the diverse flavors of around the world.

First-Year Hangouts

Looking to meet other first-year students, make new friends, and explore your Downtown Phoenix or West Valley campus communities? Join us at First Year Hangouts—a casual, welcoming space designed just for you! Whether you’re stopping by between classes or staying to connect, these hangouts are all about building friendships, sharing experiences, and having fun. We’ll have conversation starters, light snacks, and occasional themed activities to help break the ice. It’s a great way to take a breather from your routine and feel more at home at ASU. Come hang out, connect, and make the most of your first year!

Downtown Phoenix Campus – Every first Monday of the month

West Valley Campus – Every second Tuesday of the month

ISSC Buddy Program

The ISSC Buddy Program is a peer-support initiative designed to help first-year international students transition smoothly into university life at Arizona State University. Participants will be paired with a “buddy”—an experienced student who has been at the university for at least one semester. This buddy will act as your guide and a friend, helping you navigate academic, social, and cultural aspects of Arizona State University and the U.S. in general. Buddies are recruited each semester and usually at the beginning of the semester.

If you are interested in participating in this program, please contact our FYS Experience Team.

The First-Year Student Experience Team

Please connect with us. Let us know how we can help you in your transition and adjustment to your new life at ASU.

Contact us: [email protected]