First-Year Experience

Get in the Spirit

Create the Seawolf experience that is best for you!

There are different ways to get involved based on your academic major or personal interests. Whether you plan to live on campus, commute, or take classes virtually from your home, we have the resources you need to be successful.

Seawolves Connect

Being a new student can bring up lots of questions, and Wolfpack Orientation Leaders are here to help you get the answers you need. The Wolfpack are current students who will answer your questions.

To schedule an appointment please email uaa_orientation@alaska.edu.

Wolfpack leader presenting orientation materials in front of a big screen.

FYE Team

Finding the right community to support you on your journey is important, and the First-Year Experience (FYE) team is here to help. 

Find Your Community

Community, inclusion and diversity are key values at UAA. Here you can find communities, support, and engagement opportunities.

Student Communities

Circle with TRIO logo within it TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)

Supporting students with limited income, whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have not earned a baccalaureate degree, and/or who experience a documented disability.

Circle with map of Alaska within it with circle of circles.

Native Student Services (NSS)

NSS is dedicated to serving all Native students (and their intersecting identities), regardless of degree, major, GPA, etc. In both the on-campus NSS space and virtually, students can find culturally-grounded and affirming programming, advising, advocacy, and support, including the NET Program for incoming students.

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Multicultural Student Services (MSS)

MSS specifically works to uplift students who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC); multiracial or mixed heritage; LGBTQIA2S+ students; students who practice minoritized religions, and international students. MSS has a dedicated space on campus and fosters a sense of community and belonging.

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Rainbow Initiatives

Uplifting and advocating our Queer/Trans/LGBTQIA2S+ community by providing a space, events and programming which support the belonging, engagement and holistic well-being of our community members.

Students watching hockey game.

Engage with Other Seawolves

Student studying in residence hall room.

Live & Learn On Campus

Live on campus and build community with each other in the First-Year Resident Experience (FYRE) program designed to incorporate social engagement and academic success.

Students moving up a ramp to the Sports Complex Center.

Accessible Campus

Whether you’re engaging online or on campus, UAA strives to ensure equitable access for all students. Disability Support Services (DSS) empowers, supports, and advocates for students who experience disabilities by partnering with the University community in providing equal access to all programs, facilities, services, and activities.

Academic Support

University Studies

University Studies (UNIV) courses help students transition into the university and set them up for success.

  • Learn strategies for college success
  • Explore your interests and skills in light of career options
  • Gain ownership of your educational experience

Check out UNIV Courses

Academic Advising

Advisors will help you understand your major and select the right classes to keep you on track. Advisors are a great resource to help you make a plan to complete your degree and plan for classes before registration opens. 

Who is your academic advisor? See who your advisor is on the academic advising website.

Academic Advising

Learning Commons

Get resources to help you succeed in your classes through the Learning Commons, which includes:

  • Writing Center
  • Math Lab
  • Nursing tutoring
  • Science tutoring
  • Communication Center coaching

Learning Commons