FYE Guiding Principles

FYE’s Guiding Principles provide the framework for all the classes we offer for our first-year and transfer students. While the specific topics differ across majors, our Guiding Principles ensure each student has an academic experience built around the same foundational concepts. 

Academic Integrity

Students learn Virginia Tech’s honor code and the university’s policy on plagiarism and cheating and, including the use of technology for assignments and exams. Instructors will also teach students about the ethics and professional standards of their chosen academic field. 

Professional Competency

The FYE program helps develop professional skills that will be valuable for their undergraduate experience and transition to the job market, including resumes, an introduction to the Career and Professional Development program, opportunities in their chosen field post-graduation, and engagement with alumni. 

Sense of Belonging

FYE instructors work to create a sense of belonging and community for our students, where their varied experiences and backgrounds are valued and respected. Students also learn how to engage with the larger campus community and connect with the cohort of students from their major who they will share their time at Virginia Tech.

Student Well-Being

Students learn to prioritize their emotional, physical, and mental health, not only improve their personal development, but ensure their academic success as well. Instructors engage with this principle through sharing stress management techniques, mindfulness activities, developing a support system, classroom visits from Hokie Wellness or Cook Counseling Center.