Freshman Year Goals

Every student at USF is paired with an academic success coach through CASA (the Center for Academic and Student Achievement). Your coach is here to support you as you adjust to college life—whether that means helping you develop time management and study strategies, connecting you with campus resources, or just being someone to talk to when you’re feeling unsure.

You've probably received some email communications from your coach by now, but we strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment with your coach during your first semester to start building that connection early. When your coach understands your interests and goals, they can help you create a personalized success plan that supports your growth—both inside and outside the classroom.

While your CASA coach supports you in building habits for success and navigating the broader college experience, your adviser focuses specifically on your academic program and curriculum. Your major adviser (also referred to as your faculty adviser) is your go-to resource for understanding your degree requirements, planning your class schedule, and making sure you're on track for graduation. They can also be a great resource to talk about your career interests and possible internship opportunities to seek out.

We recommend meeting with your adviser during your first semester—especially as registration for your second semester approaches—to start building a solid academic plan. And for those who aren't declared in a major yet, not to worry! Plenty of students choose to explore in their first year or two before committing to an area of study, and we have the Explore Your Path portal to help you get started. 

College isn’t just about classes—it’s also about community. Getting involved is one of the best ways to make friends, explore your interests, and feel more connected to life at USF. Freshman year is a great time to join on-campus clubs and organizations, many of which will have representatives available to talk to you at our bi-annual Involvement Fair.

You can also explore USF's Cultural Centers, which offer welcoming spaces, community-building events, and support for students from a wide range of identities and backgrounds. And if you enjoy being physically active, consider connecting with peers through Group Exercise Classes at the Koret Center or by joining one of our Intramural Sports Teams.

One of the best parts of going to USF is studying in the heart of San Francisco—a vibrant, diverse, and exciting city with endless things to discover. Your student ID doubles as a free Muni pass, giving you easy access to neighborhoods all over the city, from Ocean Beach to the Mission to Fisherman's Wharf.

But don’t stop there—the entire Bay Area is your backyard! Take a day trip to Berkeley, Oakland, Marin, or down the Peninsula to see more of what makes this region so special. You can also join one of the Koret Outdoor Adventure trips for a chance to hike, ski, play a round of mini golf, catch a Giants game, or ride a rollercoaster with your fellow Dons.

The first year of college is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being is just as important as going to class or studying for exams. Learning to recognize when you need rest, support, or connection is a key part of thriving at USF.

If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers free, confidential counseling and mental health support, in addition to Workshops and Group Therapy. For help with things like stress management, sleep, nutrition, or navigating the transition to college, Health Promotion Services (HPS) provides wellness resources, workshops, and peer support.

In addition to these resources, never underestimate the value of a walk through Golden Gate Park, a workout at Koret Center, or just a moment for a deep breath or two. College can be a stressful time, but CASA always has your back!