Course helps students transition to UNG

The University of North Georgia (UNG) is supporting first-year students in their academic, personal and professional development through experiences designed to foster success throughout their college journey.

After piloting a UNG 1101 course during the 2025-26 academic year, the university is rolling out 200 sections of the class this fall so it can share the insights with all students enrolling with 30 or fewer credit hours.

"The course is carefully curated to connect students to important resources, but more importantly equips them with the tools to successfully navigate their college journey," said Dr. LaJuan Simpson-Wilkey, dean of University College and associate vice president for Academic Affairs. "Through meaningful reflection, engagement with their instructors and peers, and exploration of their strengths and goals, students will connect to the UNG community. Those connections will foster a sense of belonging, build confidence and encourage a growth mindset."

Kyla Carruth, a junior from Commerce, Georgia, pursuing a degree in agriculture education, took UNG 1101 after transferring from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. It served as an ideal landing pad for the new Nighthawk.

"It helped me get used to what was expected of me at UNG," Carruth said. "I was more aware of all the resources UNG offers. The course also helped us know how to prepare for our future career or a master's degree if we want to pursue one."

In addition to learning about resources such as Tutoring Services, Student Counseling, Student Health Services, and campus libraries, students also take part in Clifton StrengthsFinder to aid their growth.

"I learned a lot about myself and the university and how to be a college student," Carruth said.

Ethan Starbird, a sophomore from Richmond Hill, Georgia, was part of one of the initial sections of UNG 1101 and appreciated the approach. He said it provided a more in-depth portrait of a blueprint for success than what can be gained in the shorter format of orientation.

"You can tell that the people teaching UNG 1101 want you to succeed," Starbird said. "They'll do everything in their power to help that happen."

Starbird, who is pursuing a degree in sociology, completed the Cadet Leadership Preparatory Program as a freshman and will enter his sophomore year this fall as a member of the Corps of Cadets at UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

Simpson-Wilkey noted that UNG President Michael Shannon and Provost Chaudron Gille each teach a section of UNG 1101. That type of investment from leadership is further evidence of UNG's commitment to easing the college transition.

"Students are able to tap into what's going to make them successful and give them a strong sense of belonging at our institution," said Dr. Heather Scott, associate dean of University College. "All of that comes together to contribute to their academic success."

UNG will have certain sections tailored to student veterans and adult learners, based on feedback the university received during the pilot.

"In UNG 1101, students learn to name and articulate their strengths and understand how those strengths can shape their academic, career and personal journey," said Dr. Michelle Eaton, associate vice president of Student Engagement and Success. "With dedicated sections for adult learners and student veterans, we ensure the experience feels meaningful for every student. Our instructors, knowledgeable about first-year students, create supportive and welcoming classroom spaces where students feel seen, encouraged and ready to move forward with purpose."