-
Receives Acceptance Letter
Gabby Enos received by mail her acceptance letter to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison on Thanksgiving in 2010, marking the beginning of her UW first-year experience. "I have always wanted to attend Madison since I was a kid, so when I read the news, I was quite thrilled. You can guess what I was thankful for that Thanksgiving!" said Gabby. -
Attends SOAR
Like every first-year student, Gabby attended UW'S Student Orientation, Advising and Registration (SOAR). SOAR helps ease the transition from high school to college. While attending SOAR, Gabby enrolled in courses specific to her interests with the help of an advisor, began connecting with other first-year students through team-building exercises and was introduced to the UW campus culture. -
Declines the Option to Join a FIG
On the second day of SOAR, studetns are given the option to join first-year interests groups (FIGs) when enrolling for courses. FIGs consist of a group of 20 first-year students who enroll in a cluster of three classes together. To ease one's transition to UW, some students choose to join a FIG to get to know peers on a more personable level. "I didn't do a FIG because I didn't want to take three of my classes with the same people. I wanted to make new friends and branch out," said Gabby. -
Leaves Home
Like all other first-year students, Gabby left her hometown to embark on her new journey at UW. This transition can be quite worrisome for some first-year students. "It was extremely sad saying goodbye to my parents and two younger sisters. I really had no idea what to expect, but I remained optimistic and was ready to begin a new chapter in my life," said Gabby. -
Attends 'Wisconsin Welcome' Activities
The Center for the First-Year Experience provides Wisconsin Welcome activities that give UW students the chance to find answers to their questions, learn about academics, find their way around campus and learn about Wisconsin history and culture. Gabby went to several Wisconsin Welcome activities such as attending the Chancellor’s Convocation for New Students, playing Tug-O-War at Sellery Hall and signing up for student organizations at the Student Org. Fair. -
Completes the Wisconsin Experience Seminar
The Wisconsin Experience Seminar is a one-credit course that familiarizes first-year students with UW, life as a new student, and campus resources. "I liked all the resources that this class made available to us. I learned about campus events and opportunities along with realizing how important it is to get to know my professors. I would recommend this seminar to any one that is stressed about transitioning to college," said Gabby. -
Continues to Transition at UW
Gabby is currently a sophomore studying biology and continues to adjust at UW. She said she is glad that UW offers so many first-year activities and events to ease the transition from hometown life to living at UW. "Honestly, I am grateful that Madison offers all of these experiences because I don't think I would have had such a successful first-year transition if it weren't for them. Thanks UW!" said Gabby.
