UVU: First-Year Advising Center brings purpose, success to new students
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- Utah Valley University’s First-Year Advising Center helps freshmen navigate the challenges of their first year of college.
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- Elaine Lewis, director of the Utah Valley University First-Year Advising Center.
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- Utah Valley University First-Year Advising Center staff pose for a photo on the UVU campus in Orem.
College is often seen as one of life’s most exciting adventures, but it can also be one of the most challenging and lonely experiences for first-year students.
More than 2 million freshmen enroll in colleges and universities around the United States each fall. They face various challenges, including navigating class schedules, choosing majors, coping with loneliness and mastering effective writing and note-taking.
However, about 25% of students drop out between their first and second years.
In response to these challenges, Utah Valley University leaders recognized the need for a support program for first-year students, particularly because student enrollment at the university continues to grow by about 4% to 5% each year. The solution came in developing the university’s First-Year Advising Center.
The center takes a personalized approach to student support, recognizing new students’ diverse backgrounds and circumstances. It emphasizes holistic advising and connects students to valuable on-campus resources.
Elaine Lewis, the center’s director, said, “Education is a strong foundation for success, especially in an environment like UVU where there’s always a place for everyone. I’m grateful for an incredible team at the center and the campus resources that provide students the opportunity to pursue their goals through higher education.”
While each student’s academic background is unique, many face common struggles, such as selecting a major or career path. Some students require assistance with transfer credits or course placements, illustrating the center’s adaptability in providing meaningful support.
One UVU student who used the center’s services said, “(The first-year staff members) were genuine, and I felt cared for. Their office was a very safe place.” Another student said, “They answered all my questions thoroughly and helped me find a solution that worked for me and my goals. They were enthusiastic throughout the meeting and helped me feel excited about college.”
In-person advising meetings at the center are particularly impactful because they increase the likelihood of first-semester students persisting to the next semester by 8.6%. The center provides a welcoming environment for all first-year students, regardless of their backgrounds.
Two key initiatives of the center led by Lewis include fostering a sense of belonging and engagement among first-year students and collaborating with academics to support a bachelor’s degree in university studies, which allows students to tailor their educational experiences if they cannot find the right major.
Under Lewis’ leadership, the First-Year Advising Center has significantly impacted student success and the university’s overall goals. UVU has already achieved its goal to reach a 45% graduation rate by 2025. It reached this goal in 2024, a year ahead of schedule. It also achieved a 70% retention rate for first-year students, a school record.
Kacie Huff is a student employee for Utah Valley University Public Relations.
