
First-Year Experience
First-Year Experience
First-year programming at W&L allows first-year students to bond before they ever step into the classroom. Through this programming, they are able to participate in memorable and meaningful experiences like community service, outdoor exploration and experiential trips. Then, when classes begin, students have access to class deans, peer tutors and counselors, faculty advisors and others to ensure success inside and outside of the classroom.
Leading Edge
Leading Edge is at the beginning of First-Year student orientation. Leading Edge provides students the opportunity to begin their college career with friends, a sense of community, sharpened teamwork skills and a memorable, meaningful and challenging experience. Choose one of the themed tracks that include: Appalachian Adventure, Volunteer Venture, Archaeology, Sustainability, Freedom Ride, Making Meaning, Beyond LEADership, Around the World in Five Days, Home is Where the Art Is, Wellness Adventure, and From Queer to There. More exciting trips are in the works. Students often say Leading Edge week is one of their best college memories.
Orientation Week
Before classes start, Orientation Week introduces new students to W&L traditions, the undergraduate curriculum, student organizations, and educational and social events. And it’s a great way to meet new friends.
“First-Year Orientation Committee is a group of students who work year-round to plan and prepare for incoming students. With over 100 members, FYOC organizes everything from the First-Year Olympics to carnival night, and everything in between.”
Laura Beth Lavette
Major: Biochemistry • Minor: Poverty Studies