Shippensburg University is fully committed to student success. We know the first year at a new place can be particularly challenging for students. The First Year Experience & Transfer Student Support provides all NEW to Ship students with support and mentorship during that critical period of transition.
First Year Experience
As part of the First Year Experience, students will take part in the First Year Seminar. This course is designed for first year students and focuses on communication, time management, writing, and study skills while also offering interactive learning and opportunities for experiences outside the classroom.
UNIV 101 is based around the following objectives:
- Cultivating Academic Success
- Engaging With the University Community
- Fostering Personal Development and Wellness
- Promoting Understanding of Diversity and Social Responsibility
With assistance from faculty and staff, students at Ship will learn how to do high level academic work while connecting with their peers and making lasting memories.
First Year Experience applies to all incoming first year students at Shippensburg University and transfer students with less than 30 credit hours. If you’ve already taken First Year Seminar, contact our office to discuss next steps!
All our UNIV-101 courses have an undergraduate student mentor (Peer Anchors) assigned to help first-year and transfer students transition to Shippensburg University. The Peer Anchors work directly with the UNIV-101 faculty to support students' needs in and outside of the classroom. They hold weekly study halls, facilitate class discussions, and take students to campus events.
Peer Anchors
Contact Your Peer Anchor
Please check your UNIV-101 syllabus for their Ship email or call our office. Every UNIV 101 class has a GroupMe Messenger app that you can also use to quickly message a Peer Anchor.
Apply to be a Peer Anchor
Peer Anchors serve to support and encourage new First-Year and Transfer students’ success. Peer Anchors lead mentees through their Welcome Experience (move-in and first weekend experiences) and help new students throughout the academic year. Through one-on-one and group meetings, Peer Anchors are a knowledgeable guide for new students, a thoughtful facilitator who provide access to people and resources and ultimately serve as a role model and advocate.
First Year Experience Coordinators
Transfer Student Support at Ship
Transfer Student Support is our one-stop-shop for navigating Ship's campus. During your first semester at Ship, you can set up a one-on-one consultation with a member of our team, attend transfer student events, or get connected with your academic advisor to navigate your degree plan.
Schedule a Transfer Support Consultation Meeting
To schedule a transfer student support consultation, please email fye@ship.edu or call Director Alex Karlheim at (717) 477-1919.