OVERVIEW:
First-Year Seminar (FYS) is a course all incoming freshman are required to take. Topics and instructors vary from year to year. The goal of the course is to both introduce students to Austin College, and to help them make the transition to college level work. Each professor chooses students to serve as First-Year Seminar Leaders (FSLs) for their class.
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF A FSL:
FSL responsibilities (which vary from professor to professor) may include some or all of the following:
- Participating in August training with RAs and other staff
- Assisting with beginning-of-year orientation for freshmen
- Helping freshmen with registration
- Attending (and preparing for) class as instructed by the professor
- Grading, testing and other teaching assistant activities as agreed to by the professor
- Assisting freshmen with writing skills if requested by the professor
- Teaching a class session if requested by the professor
- Coordinating with professor and/or professional staff as needed to respond to personal crises freshmen may confide to you as a student leader.
NOTE: Since all FSLs are expected to be in good standing (both from a social and an academic standpoint) you cannot be a FSL if you are on social or academic probation while during the term you wish to serve as a FSL.
FAQ:
Are there any requirements to be a FSL?
As noted above, you cannot be a FSL if you will be on either social or academic probation during the Fall semester.
If I apply, am I assured of being a FSL?
No. Each professor is responsible for choosing their FSLs, and if the number of applicants exceeds the number of FSLs needed, you may not be chosen.
A professor who is teaching FYS next fall has already contacted me about being their FSL. Do I still need to fill out this application?
Yes; everyone who wishes to be a FSL must complete the application.
I have not been contacted by any FYS professor. Does this mean I cannot apply to be a FSL?
No. While many professors actively seek out specific students to serve as FSLs, others choose their FSLs from those who apply. Hence the sooner you complete your application, the better your chances of being considered for a FSL position.
Is it okay for me to contact a professor on the list, to see if they would consider me?
Yes, so long as you understand that some professors may tell you they have already chosen their FSLs.
I have already served as a FSL – can I do it again?
No – you may only serve as a FSL once.
I didn’t take FYS – can I still apply?
Yes, but be sure to read over the Austin College Bulletin description of FYS so you understand what the program entails.
I cannot attend one or more of the events listed above (FSL training, freshman move-in, etc.) Can I still apply?
No. These are required elements of FYS, and hence if you cannot attend all these events, you should not apply.
What if, after being chosen as a FSL, I am placed on either academic or social probation? Can I still be a FSL?
No, you cannot.
The FSL application period runs from early February through March. Follow the link below to see if applications are currently being accepted: