First-year interest groups
What is a first-year interest group (FIG)?
First-Year Interest Groups (FIGs) are groups of students who take two or more classes together during their first semester at Wayne State. FIGs are designed to help new students make a successful transition to university life by providing a small, close-knit educational community. FIGs utilize block scheduling to enhance a students educational experience and to simplify the course registration process.
First-year students are invited to join a FIG for the Fall 2024 semester based on their academic interests or identity group. A FIG block schedule provides students with a part-time set of classes that will work toward a full-time course load (12 credit hours). FIGs may satsify major/minor or general educational requirements, and kicks off your academic journey in a supportive, exciting way!
How to join a FIG
1. Explore the fall 2024 FIG offerings and confirm that the block schedule works for you.
2. Complete the FIG Selection Survey and indicate which FIG you'd like to join. Make sure you have your Wayne State AccessID available!
3. Wait for confirmation from the FIG Team that you've been approved to join the FIG for the fall semester. Our staff will notify you via your WSU email account, and will provide next steps to register for your classes.
4. Register for your block schedule of FIG courses!
5. Connect with your academic advisor to round out your first semester schedule. It's important to double check your course schedule to make sure you're satisfying program and financial aid requirements.
First-year interest group listings
Review the groups available for the semester you plan to begin at Wayne State University and then complete the selection survey to indicate which ones interest you.
Join a FIG today!
If you are interested in joining a First-Year Interest Group, complete the FIG Selection Survey (WSU AccessID required). You'll receive an email to your WSU account to let you know your request is being processed and we'll be in touch with next steps.
A common set of courses for an uncommon experience
FIG classes have been carefully selected to apply towards degree requirements while also complimenting the theme of the group. The classes allow students to interact with faculty, staff, and the campus community in a more frequent and intentional manner. Engaging in a shared set of courses will help foster a sense of community to last beyond orientation and the first semester.
Engaged faculty, staff and student support
The FIG coordinator will provide expert referrals to campus resources and academic support, including helping each student complete your schedule with additional courses for full-time study based on your needs and placement. A dedicated page in Canvas will allow for online interaction beyond the scope of the classes. Each FIG will also have a peer mentor to provide support from the student perspective.
A campus like none other
Wayne State University provides a home base from which to explore everything Detroit and its surrounding areas have to offer. In addition to taking classes together, students have opportunities to connect beyond just the classroom. Whether a student chooses to live on campus or commute, there's something for everyone. Between activities in the Student Center and Fitness Center, studying in the Undergraduate Library, participating in research opportunities, or exploring a multitude of student organizations, the campus is a vibrant hub of activity all day (and evening) long. For a calendar of events, see Get Involved.