First-year experience student leaders serve in vital roles that support the orientation, transition, and retention of new students.

First Year Center Executive Board

The First Year Center Executive Board (FYX) helps to create, plan, and implement programs that aid new students and their parents & families in their academic, social, and personal transition to Washington University. Each FYX holds a specific chair position and works to implement our various programs.

Washington University Student Associates

WUSAs are volunteers who assist new students with their academic, social, and personal transition to Washington University. They serve as orientation leaders during Bear Beginnings and then they serve as academic peer mentors for the student’s entire first year.

WUSAs who support first-year students work collaboratively with Resident Advisors to build community in the residence halls and inform new students of important academic deadlines and resources. They host two hours on the residential floor each week, and a program with the Faculty Associate and one off-campus excursion each semester.

WUSAs who support transfer or exchange students build community among those affinity groups through monthly on-campus socials and off-campus excursions.