First-Year Experience
Peer Mentorship Program
The First-Year Experience (FYE) at UH Hilo is a peer mentorship program designed to support all incoming first-year and transfer students. In partnership with Kīpuka Native Hawaiian Student Center, FYE fosters a welcoming environment where students can build meaningful connections, access resources, and thrive as part of the UH Hilo ʻohana.
Our mission is to establish a strong foundation for academic success and social integration by helping students connect with peers, faculty, and the broader community. Through personalized mentorship, engaging events, and culturally grounded support, FYE cultivates pride, belonging, and lifelong connections at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
Program Intentions
Support First-Year and Transfer Students’ academic and social integration through lasting connections with peers, faculty, staff, and campus resources.
Foster a supportive learning environment that promotes success through tailored programs, mentorship, and student services
Build a sense of belonging by helping students embrace what it means to be part of the UH Hilo ʻOhana through community building events and intentional engagement
FYE members at a tabling event on the Campus Center Plaza
FYE Peer Mentorship Program
Mentor Collective
Through a partnership with Mentor Collective, the Kīpuka Native Hawaiian Student Center and the First-Year Experience (FYE) program provide personalized peer mentorship to all first-year and transfer students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. Students are automatically paired with a trained peer mentor and may complete a short matching questionnaire to help create a more tailored experience based on their background, interests, and goals.
Mentor Collective mentors offer regular check-ins, tips, and guidance to help new students confidently navigate their college journey. Whether you're looking for advice on how to get involved, connect with campus resources, or adjust to campus life, your mentor is here to support you every step of the way. This mentorship program helps you feel welcomed, informed, and grounded in our UH Hilo ʻohana from day one.
First-year students are automatically assigned a peer mentor. If you would like to complete a matching survey (not required) please complete the registration below.
FYE Student Engagement & Events
What are the First Six?
First Six refers to programming that takes place during the first six weeks of the semester.
The First Six Weeks of College; Why They Matter
The first six weeks of college are a pivotal time for students to adjust to a new environment, build meaningful connections, and establish strong academic habits. This early period can shape a student’s entire college experience and their likelihood of staying enrolled and succeeding at their higher education institution.
These initiatives are designed to help students
- Adapt confidently to the college environment
- Build meaningful social connections with peers, mentors, and staff
- Establish strong academic routines and healthy study habits
- Navigate campus resources essential for well-being and success
- Feel seen, supported, and empowered during a time that can often feel overwhelming or uncertain
Why It’s Important
- Research shows that students who feel a sense of belonging and connection early on are more likely to persist, succeed academically, and feel confident in their college journey, especially first-generation, transfer, and underrepresented students.
First Six programming isn’t just about events, it's about building a strong foundation for student success, belonging, and persistence that will help shape the rest of a student’s journey starting from day one.
First-Year Student Programming
The First-Year Experience (FYE) program offers a range of programming specifically designed to support students beginning their college journey at UH Hilo. These initiatives help first-year students build a strong foundation for academic success, personal growth, and campus involvement. Programming focuses on easing the transition into college life through mentorship, resource navigation, and opportunities to connect with peers, faculty, and staff. By fostering a sense of belonging and confidence, FYE helps students thrive as part of the UH Hilo ʻohana from their very first year at UH Hilo.
Transfer Student Programming
The First-Year Experience (FYE) program also offers specialized programming tailored specifically for transfer students. While first-year programming focuses on helping students acclimate to college life for the first time, transfer student programming addresses the unique challenges of moving to a new campus and continuing an academic journey from another institution. These programs provide targeted workshops, peer networking opportunities, and connections to campus resources designed to support transfer students as they integrate academically, socially, and culturally into the UH Hilo ʻohana.