What is First Year Writing?

No one walks into college completely prepared for what comes next. That doesn’t mean you don’t belong — you do belong. It just means that you need a chance to learn about the culture of your new community, get the skills you need to succeed, and find the right resources to help you when you struggle. That’s what this program is all about.

If you're taking ENGL 1310, ENGL 1320, or TSIW 1300, you're in First Year Writing.

We're glad you're here.

Why You're Enrolled in This Program

Let's be real: you’re taking ENGL 1310, ENGL 1320, or TSIW 1300 because you want to get a college degree. That's a good goal, but it's not an easy one. You'll need to learn specific skills, overcome school-related and personal obstacles, and make good choices. You'll also need to have strong support from friends, family, and your college. In this program, we will help you learn those skills you need and be part of your support network.

Your Learning Agreement with Your Instructor

Your instructor will support you to the best of their ability: however, they expect certain things from you, too.

What You Can Expect from Your Instructor
  1. You may come to their student hours or schedule another time whenever you need their help.
  2. They will provide you with clear, organized course designed to ensure you meet our course outcomes.
  3. They will actively help you learn.
  4. They will provide a supportive and safe environment where learning can take place.
  5. They will reach out to you when they feel you need support.
  6. They will treat you with the dignity and respect that everyone deserves.
  7. They won't be perfect, but will try their best.
  8. They will try to answer your emails as soon as possible.
What Your Instructor Expects from You
  1. They expect you to come to class.
  2. They expect you to be prepared to engage actively while you are in class.
  3. They expect you to ask for help when you need it.
  4. They expect you to take responsibility for your own learning.
  5. They expect you to treat them and your peers with dignity and respect.
  6. They expect you to give yourself some grace when you aren't perfect.
  7. They expect you to do your best to complete all of your assignments on time.
  8. They expect you to send emails that ask specific questions and use a respectful tone.

 

What You Need to Do Next

Now that you know what to expect, here's how to make sure your semester starts off smoothly:

  1. Log in to Canvas
  2. Open the course
  3. Read the course syllabus

How to Get Help and Answers

Please speak up when you have questions! You can always ask your professor, teaching assistants (TAs), and academic assistants (AAs) for help. There are also many other support resources on campus — too many to list here.

There are no bad questions, and no problem is too big or too small to talk about. We're always here to help.

Last Updated: November 5, 2024