Washington and Lee University
Welcome to the First-Year Program website at Washington and Lee University! Our goal is to assist new students as they develop academically, socially, emotionally and intellectually. There is a direct connection here between what happens in and beyond the classroom; you will find that our academic and student life programs are complimentary and interrelated.
Click the links below to find important information for the Class of 2017.
Can't find what you are looking for? Check out the FAQ webpage!
All required and important optional first-year student forms can be found on Generals' Headquarters (GHQ) once you have confirmed your admission and received an information packet via USPS from the Office of the Assistant Dean for First-Year Experience beginning in March.
Ready to submit Housing Preferences, Faculty Adviser Form, and other required and optional forms? Log on to GHQ to begin. Note: major due dates are June 1 and July 31.
The First-Year Program is up and running by mid-March with the New Student Guidebook and Class of 2017 Summer Timeline mailing, which outline the summer responsibilities of a new General. This information will explain what forms need to be filled out and how to obtain access information for your W&L e-mail and network account through Generals' HQ. New students are strongly encouraged to utilize their new e-mail accounts and to check their e-mail daily since this is the primary way the University conducts its business with students. New students receive their room assignment and the name of their initial faculty adviser via e-mail. New students should also make time to review the University Student Handbook.
First-year students have the option of participating in The Leading Edge pre-orientation program, offering a variety of challenging and rewarding service learning, leadership, and backpacking trips that take place in late August one week prior to Orientation Week. Over 230 students applied for the Leading Edge last year and evaluated the program very favorably.
The 5-day Orientation Week introduces the newest members of our community to those Washington and Lee traditions which are central, both functionally and philosophically, to the past, present, and future of the University. The Honor system, undergraduate curriculum, student self-governance, clubs and organizations fair, educational and social events, and meeting fellow classmates are just a few of the many highlights of the Orientation program.
Members of our Student Affairs staff take great pride in working as collaborative partners with our students. Please explore our website and feel free to call (540-458-8405) or e-mail us (jrodocker@wlu.edu). We would enjoy talking with you!
Jason Rodocker
Assistant Dean for First-Year Experience
