K-State First
students in the Beach Museum of Art in front of a painting

Welcome to K-State First

With a focus on academic excellence, community, diversity, and the empowerment of students, our programs set students on the path to academic success, degree attainment, and satisfaction and achievement in their careers and personal lives.

What we do

K-State First is a part of the Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs and is dedicated to assisting new students with the transition to university-level learning and college life. We are committed to creating a rewarding and engaging college experience for all first-year students at Kansas State University. Bringing together exciting small classes taught by exceptional faculty with a vibrant student life experience, K-State First helps students establish the foundation for a successful college career. The program provides new students with a transition to college-level learning and college life in four important ways:

Foster campus community and feelings of belonging
Offer opportunities for diverse activities and interactions
Raise academic expectations with engagement and compassion
Empower students with a strong sense of personal responsibility and social agency

a group of students smiling at the camera

Core Programs

K-State First has three core programs for first-year students that have been developed and organized for you to achieve maximum success during your first-year. We are an advocate for first-year students and an important source for connection and communication among the various Colleges, majors, programs, and resource opportunities. We want to find the right fit for you so that you have the best start to your college career and can build a foundation for success from the very beginning.
CAT Communities
First-Year Seminars
K-State First Book

 

Student Learning Outcomes

Each of the three programs has the same four learning outcomes built in to help determine the positive impact K-State First has on first-year student success overall.
Think Critically
Communicate Effectively
Build Community
Apply Learning

 

Why it matters

The first-year of college is a big deal. A positive transition to university-level learning and the college experience in general can set you on the path to academic success, degree attainment, as well as satisfaction and achievement in your career and personal life. The first-year is also the place where students are most likely to encounter a whole range of obstacles that might deter you from the degree and the learning you want. We help you to both avoid and overcome those obstacles.

Our programs help students build community, access resources, connect to research and professional opportunities, and find the space where you feel like you belong right away.

Connect with our Team

Assessment information graphic