What is the First Year Seminar?
The First Year Seminar is a 3-credit course that all new first year students take in their first semester at AUR. Meeting twice a week for a total of three hours, the seminar covers key skills that are necessary for academic success. Through the semester students will improve their presentation, discussion and writing skills as well as learning how to do university-level research. A lot of time is also dedicated to discussions about culture and diversity. In FYS 101, students learn essential information about the University and themselves that help them succeed in their first year of college.

Is the First Year Seminar a required course?
Yes, all new first year students must take the First Year Seminar as part of their General Education requirement.

Is Academic Orientation during arrivals week mandatory?
Yes! Attendance at the academic elements of the program (in yellow) – link to academic orientation schedule - is required.

What is the Academic Orientation schedule?
Link to schedule

What courses do I take in my first semester?
In your first semester you would usually take five courses: All first year students take the First Year Seminar. We also expect you to take an English writing course, an Italian language course and a course in your major if you have already declared a major. You are automatically pre-registered for these courses and information regarding your schedule is emailed to you before the start of the semester. The fifth course is usually left free for you to choose with your Academic Advisor when you arrive. You may want to consider a Math or other General Education course. If you would like to have a look at the class schedule for fall 2008 you can do so on our website: www.aur.edu/pdfs/fall_08_area.pdf just bear in mind that in your first year in university you should be taking courses with a 100-level or 200-level code, and some courses may already be fully enrolled.

When and how do I purchase my textbooks?
Textbooks are on sale on campus during the first and second weeks of the semester. You will find out which books you need to purchase after you attend your first class and receive a course syllabus from your instructor.

When do I get my I.D. card?
Drop in to the I.D. badge station on campus during arrivals week to have your photograph taken and pick up your I.D. badge.

Can I change my pre-registration schedule?
Yes, you will meet with your Academic Advisor during arrivals week and you will have the opportunity to discuss alternative course options.

Do I have to take elementary Italian courses if I already speak Italian?
No, if you already have a sufficient understanding of the Italian language you can take the Italian language placement test during academic orientation and test out of the elementary Italian requirement.