What Is FOCUS?
FOCUS, First-Year Opportunities and Connections for UNA Students, is a first-year residential community which provides a network of resources for students to create friendships, learn the traditions and customs of UNA, and successfully transition into their college experience. Participants are able to engage with their peers and develop the skills necessary to be an academically successful student and contributing member of the UNA community.
What Are FYRE Fellows?
FYRE Fellows, First-Year Resident Educators, are academic-oriented peer mentors that provide guidance to residents in the FOCUS community. FYRE Fellows undergo intense training on the challenges and changes associated with the first-year transition to college. They will make individual contact with residents to ensure they have a network of resources and individuals vested in their experience at UNA. FYRE Fellows are staff members of Residence Life and reside on FOCUS floors which provides an element of access and convenience to participating residents. Additionally, they are available daily in the FOCUS Success Center on the ground floor of Rivers Hall.
What Transitions Might First-Year Students Experience?
- New Home
- New Friends
- New Routines
- New Decisions
- New Adventures
- New Academic Challenges
- New Level Of Independence
Where Is FOCUS?
FOCUS is housed in Rivers Hall, our most recently renovated residence hall. Residents are placed in this building so they can most easily access program resources, including the Success Center. Space in Rivers Hall is limited and rooms are assigned on a first come, first serve basis. If you would like to live and participate in this community, we recommend completing your Residence Hall Application and Contract as soon as possible.
Please contact Jennifer A. Ballard for additional information.
