One in every four students will quit college during their first year, when risk of dropout reaches its peak. However, by fostering a supportive campus environment, strong extracurricular engagement, and resources for academic success, colleges can significantly increase their students’ likelihood to persist and graduate.
Launched in 2024, Eastern Florida State College’s (EFSC’s) First Year Experience (FYE) is a collegewide initiative to connect all new students with resources, classmates, support services, student life, and the overall college culture.
The year-long experience begins in August prior to the first day of class, kicking off a series of monthly activities, workshops, and meetups with special Welcome and Field Day events. These provide a chance to connect with fellow students, meet mentors, and discover resources and opportunities at EFSC — all while enjoying free food, music, games, and giveaways.
Planning Success from Day One
Makayla Halavin, who participated in FYE as a first-time-in-college student, found it invaluable for connecting her with resources like Time Management workshops and on-campus events.
“It was comforting to know that there are people there to help you,” she said. “Especially with school, work, and personal life balance.”
While first-time-in-college high school grads comprise a majority of participants, FYE also includes former dual enrolled students, transfer students, bachelor students, and international students.
FYE helped South African student, Temieka Greyling, find a solid foundation for pursuing her dream of being a clinical counselor.
“Everybody’s very helpful,” said Greyling. “There are a bunch of sessions, parties, and events that help you get included in the community. I know I’m going to finish my A.A. degree here at EFSC.”
This year’s FYE lineup includes a “Healthy Habits” workshop, which helps students craft individualized meal plans featuring nutritious recipes, and a “Connect and Succeed Social,” designed to help students meet new friends and discover campus resources while competing in games.
Connecting through Coaching
EFSC’s Student Support Center, staffed by Success Specialists, plays a critical role in FYE programming. Success Specialists provide personalized “life coaching” to students, helping them meet deadlines, identify financial resources, connect with program advisors, improve their notetaking, and advocate for themselves.
Caitlyn Barber, who staffs the Melbourne Titan Support Center and completed her associate and bachelor degrees at EFSC, noted how much the FYE initiative would have benefitted her during year one.
“Since COVID, mental health concerns are on the rise,” said Barber. “We constantly research the most effective ways for students to find success — everything from time-management and balancing your schedule, to stress management.”
As a result, she’s noticed students confidently communicating with professors and peers, as well as confronting emotional stress with problem-solving skills. Amidst its games and workshops, FYE emphasizes one-on-one time between students and Success Specialists, ensuring students have multiple check-in’s as they advance through college.
“We help them answer the question: ‘What are you doing in college?'” said Lisa Hanney, Success Specialist in Cocoa. “It really helps them to have that big goal. Everything else seems to fall in place.”
By providing a proactive approach for success, FYE grounds students in the college experience while providing them with motivation through professional, peer, and community support.
“To me, FYE means showing and assuring the students that we really care from day one,” said Barber. “We want to give them the best possible advantage, regardless of circumstances, to achieve their goals and dreams.”
- 5 Reasons to Volunteer While in College - February 4, 2026
- New Smiles Ahead: EFSC to Expand Dental Programs for Students & Community - January 14, 2026
- EFSC Composes Foundation for Student’s Music Education Career - November 19, 2025
