Our new First Year Experience program is designed to help you prepare for the transition from high school to college.
The pandemic disrupted learning for every student over the past 18 months. In response to those challenges, Siena has completely reimagined its first-year experience to benefit you from the moment you step on campus. Our new and enhanced programming will ensure a smooth transition to your college life – both academically and socially.
Siena's Class of 2026 Preview Days will allow you to get acquainted with campus before you move-in or start classes! It's the perfect opportunity to explore campus, meet other Saints, see what your dorm and classrooms will look like, get your Saint Card, visit the bookstore and more!
Our Orientation is a five-day program that takes place just before classes begin in the fall. During this time, you’ll meet and connect with other first-year students, familiarize yourself with campus, get to know faculty and staff, and discover all the advantages Siena offers.
The first three weeks of the fall semester, our Weeks of Welcome, are filled with activities and events that will further acclimate you to campus life. You’ll be encouraged to pursue your interests (and find new interests!) at our Club Fair sign-up. Plus, grab a bite and introduce yourself at Franks with Friars, try your luck at Siena’s famous Bingo night, and so much more.
Our Saints love First-Year Seminar. FYS will teach you how to be college students, and does so in a way that is unique to our Franciscan heritage. You will learn important skills that carry over to each and every course you will take at Siena.
Whether through tutoring, academic advising, academic support programming (e.g., study skills courses), or academic intervention, Siena's Student Academic Success and Engagement's main office staff will work closely with you to plan how to best assist you.