First Year Experience

Welcome to the First Year Experience (FYE) Program

We've got you, from Day 1. Join the FYE Program at Compton College, built to help you start strong, find your place, and succeed from the very beginning.

What is FYE?

Starting college can feel exciting, but also a little overwhelming. The First Year Experience (FYE) Program at Compton College is here to make your transition smoother, more supportive, and less stressful. Whether you're coming straight from high school, returning as an adult learner, or starting college for the first time, FYE is designed to help you feel confident and prepared from day one.

Your first year is a critical time to learn how college works, build strong habits, and find your community on campus. You don't have to figure it all out on your own. FYE gives you the guidance and support you need every step of the way.

Through the FYE Program, you'll receive support with:

- Building a personalized Student Educational Plan (SEP)
- Developing study skills, time management, and goal-setting strategies
- Navigating college platforms like Canvas, MyCompton, student email, and library resources
- Accessing key campus services including Counseling, Financial Aid, Tutoring, etc.

You'll be supported by a dedicated FYE Counselor and FYE staff, and you'll have opportunities to connect with the campus so you can build community and truly feel like you belong.

Our goal is simple: to give you the tools, resources, and confidence you need, not just for your first year, but for your entire journey at Compton College.

Program Benefits
Priority Registration: Be one of the first students at Compton College to enroll in your classes each Fall and Spring semester, for your first two years in the program!

FYE Orientation: Before your first semester begins, you'll attend a mandatory FYE Orientation that walks you through everything you need to know about the program, what to expect, and how to get started on the right foot.

The FYE Summer Program: A two-week summer transition experience where you'll get familiar with life at Compton College while exploring what it means to become a future transfer student at a four-year university. This is where your college journey begins.

FYE Counselor: You'll be partnered with a dedicated FYE Counselor who will help you build a personalized SEP, choose your classes each semester, and connect you with the right support along the way.

Campus Engagement & Programming: Get access to interactive academic workshops, campus support services, and community-building events, all designed to help you succeed, stay engaged, and feel connected at Compton College.

Peer Mentors (Coming Fall 2026): First-year students will be paired with a current Compton College student who previously participated in FYE. Your peer mentor will share their experiences, answer your questions, and help you feel supported and confident throughout your first year.

CSU Transfer Success Pathway (TSP): Eligible first-time, first-year students can receive guaranteed admission to an eligible CSU campus and major (some exclusions apply), along with personalized support from a CSU representative, your FYE Counselor, and the CSU Transfer Planner to keep you on track for transfer.
Program Eligibility Requirements
To join the FYE Program, you'll need to complete the following steps:
- - Apply to Compton College: Complete a Summer 2026 application to Compton College via CCCApply.
  - Attend the Mandatory FYE Orientation: Required for full activation as an FYE student and access to all program benefit and services.
  - Attend & Complete the FYE Summer Program
    - Can't make it this summer? You'll attend New Student Welcome Day on August 19, 2026 as an alternative.
  - Complete New Student Orientation Online: Finish the New Student Orientation through your MyCompton portal to activate your priority registration.
  - Complete you Financial Aid Application: Submit the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 FAFSA or California Dream Act application.
    - The 2025-2026 application covers Summer 2026 fees. The 2026-2027 application covers Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.
  - Enroll in Math, English, & Human Development (HDEV): Complete all three courses by the end of your first year.
    - Please note that FYE is best suited for students pursuing an Associate's Degree or transfer to a four-year university. If that's not your current path, we're still happy to help connectn you with the right resources!
  - Meet with your FYE Counselor at least once per semester (Fall and Spring)
    - You're more than welcome to see them as many times as you need to!
  - Create a Student Educational Plan (SEP): Work with your FYE Counselor to build a personalized academic roadmap toward your degree and transfer goals.
  - Enroll in at least 6 units per semester: Completing 6 units per semester keeps you on track and qualifies you for the Oliver W. Connor College Promise Program.
    - Enrolling in 12 units or more can help finish your degree faster and qualify you for programs like EOPS/CARE/NEXTUP.
  - Be a First-Time College Student: No prior college credits from other colleges or universities. High school dual enrollment credits are accepted.
    - Your first semester should be starting in Summer or Fall 2026.
  - Attend 3 workshops per semester: Participate in at least 3 FYE-hosted workshops each Fall and Spring semester.
Recommended - But NOT Required
- - California Residency or AB540 Status: All students are welcome regardless of residency status.
    - Don't meet this requirement? You'll still have full access to FYE support services, but financial support may vary while you establish residency.
  - Enroll in 12 or more units per semester: Full-time enrollment is strongly encouraged to stay on track for transfer within 2-3 years.
    - Part-time enrollment (6-11.5 units) is welcome! Students connected with the Special Resource Center may also participate part-time with approved accommodations.
FYE Canvas Hub
As an FYE student, you'll have exclusive access to the FYE Canvas Hub — your one-stop digital home for everything you need to stay informed, connected, and on track throughout the year.

Inside the FYE Canvas Hub, you'll find:
- - Program Announcements & Updates: Stay up to date on FYE news, important deadlines, events, and workshops happening throughout the year, plus key contact information for FYE staff.
  - Campus Resources & Programs: Explore the wide range of support services and programs available at Compton College, all in one place and available at your own pace.
  - Guided Pathways: Browse degreoptions to help you identify the right academic path toward your goals.
  - Registration & Financial Aid Support: Step-by-step instructions and resources to help you register for classes and navigate the financial aid process with confidence.
  - CSU Transfer Success Pathway (TSP): Learn about guaranteed CSU admission opportunities available to eligible first-time, first-year college students.
  - Wellness & On-Campus Resources: Direct links to on-campus wellness services and support resources whenever you need them.
You'll receive a direct invitation to join the FYE Canvas Hub to your Compton Student Email right before the Fall 2026 semester begins, so keep an eye on your inbox!