First Year Experience

A group of freshman students walk across the Show Me Center Pedestrian Bridge.

First things first... WELCOME TO SEMO! You are officially a Redhawk. Woo hoo! We hope you are as excited as we are! Now that you are on to your next step, it’s time to find out how to make the most of your first year! You've come to the right place, let's do this!

FIND YOUR FLOCK

Options are something we've got plenty of! Whether you are looking to build your resume, battle boredom, or connect with other students on campus, we can get you involved! No matter what you're interested in, there's a way to find friends who like the same things. Here's a sample of what we offer:

Your First Year!

First STEP

First STEP Orientation is a great way to get comfortable with the campus and to be prepared when school starts. You can meet with your academic advisor, create your schedule, and meet other new Redhawks all in one day!
Freshman Seminar

We provide a class that specifically focuses on your transition to the University! First Year Seminar, UI100, allows you to better understand how to juggle the academic demands of college and introduces you to the resources we provide on campus.
First Year Leadership

Our First Year Leadership Program is the best way to explore your leadership strengths and style. FYLP is open to all new students in good standing!
Camp Redhawk

Be part of one of the newest Southeast traditions, Camp Redhawk! This summer leadership camp is designed to prepare first-year students for their time at SEMO! Learn our campus traditions, immerse yourself in school spirit, connect with other Redhawks, and have a lot of fun!
Engage in 8!

 Our "Engage in 8!" program sets your first 8 weeks at SEMO in motion! Whether it’s attending a theatre production, playing intramurals, going to worship, or joining a student organization, explore the variety of programs and events created with you in mind.
Career Development

SEMO has so many opportunities for you to learn and grow as you prepare for your future career. Meet with Career Services, attend developmental events, find jobs or internships that are the right fit for you, and more with a committed staff that puts you first!
Student Success Seminars

 Our seminars focus on the tools you need to succeed that are not covered in the classroom! This program is sponsored by the Academic Support Center to build skills and provide information for students, like you, striving to get the most out of their college experience.
Families

We know that sending your children off to college can be a stressful time. Families, if you have any questions or if you are looking to become more involved in the University, look no further! We have information for you!

Getting started on day one!

Opening Week Activities

The Southeast experience includes more than just attending classes; it's about being engaged in your University home and taking advantage of the countless opportunities we offer beginning the first week! Check back frequently for new events and updates!

Engage in 8!

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Southeast is here to prepare you for your future career! Academics is the most important part of that. The material you learn in your first semester is the foundation of your studies and is crucial for making the Dean's List and beyond! Take advantage of our free Academic resources:

Still Searching?

If you haven't decided on a major yet, or you have, and you're having second thoughts, you're in good company. Nearly 25% of Redhawks enter freshman year without a major in mind. You have time to decide, and we have people who can guide you through your options!

Explore Your Options

Campus Map

Moving to a new place can be stressful! You probably don't know where you're going. No worries, we'll give you a cheat sheet for the time being. You'll be a tour guide in a few weeks!

Become Familiar with Southeast

We're Here to Assist!

You're new here. We don't expect you to have all the answers. But knowing who to ask when you have a question will make your first year way easier. We've put together a handy guide that will help you go straight to the source. Of course, if you don't see your question on the list, New Student Programs is happy to help connect you to the right people.

Opening Week Guide

If you've got your career planned out or haven't yet decided what life after graduation looks like, now's a great time to get started! Here are some things future you will thank you for doing your first year:

Shadow someone in a career that interests you
Consider a part-time or summer job to include as experience on your resume
Volunteer at a non-profit organization related to your area of interest
Meet with your academic advisor and a career counselor, if necessary
Join a student organization that may offer leadership experience over the coming years
Attend career-focused guest lectures and seminars
Attend networking events like the Career Expo each semester

Additional Resources