First Year U: Learning, Leadership & Community (FYU) is an innovative leadership initiative at the University of Miami- the first of its kind in terms of purpose and partnerships. FYU, which runs from September through November, is designed to provide first-year students the opportunity to learn about leadership in non-traditional ways, make connections with faculty and explore Miami.

The program looks to promote discourse that pushes beyond traditional paradigms of positional leadership and challenges students to take ownership over their holistic educational experience. The program is a mix of large group sessions on thematic topics and smaller, cohort-based experiences in the residential areas. Commuter students are paired with a residential college as well. Smaller discussions emphasize central themes such as diversity, leadership, owning your experience- all toward the common goal of responsible citizenship that capitalizes on translating what you have learned inside and outside the classroom into action.

During November, participants will explore the community through ‘Experience Miami’ trips. These experientially based trips provide the chance to see first-hand how some of our most esteemed faculty and administrators utilize their skills to be tremendous advocates and contributors to the community. The program begins with a kick-off event and concludes with a closing banquet. The undergraduate academic fellows and commuter assistants provide additional support, resources and opportunities for the participants in the program.

FYU is open to all first year students, including first year commuters. Students must be available on Monday nights from 6:00pm-8:00pm for the 2012 FYU program.

Applications are due to the Butler Center (University Center 240) by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 31, 2012. You can also submit your application to a Butler Center staff member during Orientation!

Download the application here.

Kick-Off
Monday, September 10 – 6:00pm-8:00pm
Dinner to meet Faculty & Student Facilitators

Team Building and Bonding Day
Sunday, September 16 – 9:00am-3:30pm

Group Sessions
All sessions will be comprised of a large group presentation followed by small group discussions done in cohorts and will take place from 6-8pm. Session topics include: Ethics (Social Justice), Civic Engagement/Community Change, Environmental Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, and Globalization.

Monday, September 24
Monday, October 1
Monday, October 8
Monday, October 22
Monday, October 29

Experiencing Miami Trips
From November 5th through November 19th, participants will be asked to complete 2 of the 3 Experience Miami trips offered. Experience Miami trips are led by esteemed faculty and community leaders and will demonstrate to participants how their academic expertise can be translated into community leadership and advocacy for social change.

Closing Banquet:
Monday, November 26th – 5:30pm-8:30pm
Closing Banquet & Dinner on Miami Beach