Whether you are a freshman or transfer student, Webster University wants to ensure you are thriving in your new environment. The Office of First-Year Experience and Family Programs provides resources, services and programs for first-year students and family members of undergraduate students that promote student success.
Orientation
Webster University’s Office of First-Year Experience and Family Programs offers a different orientation experience for both first-year freshmen and transfer students.
No matter if you join Webster in the Fall or Spring semesters, we are excited for you to join the Gorlok family and orientation is the start of the journey. Transfer Orientation is for all incoming admitted transfer students and is designed to provide you with information about academic resources, campus resources, student life, safety and other resources that are particular to Webster University in an online format.
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us at welcome@webster.edu or call 314-246-2598.
Taking place the weekend before classes start in August, our mandatory orientation encompasses various programs for first-year freshmen. There are a series of activities that provide a jump-start to your campus life, allowing you to explore campus and make connections.
A spring orientation is also offered for new first-time freshmen the Friday before classes start every January.
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us at welcome@webster.edu or call 314-246-2598.
Learning Communities
The Learning Community (LC) program consists of co-enrolling students in purposefully paired courses in their first fall semester at Webster University. These courses are specifically selected for the learning community and based on a topical interest or an area of academic study. Through these Learning Communities, you will participate in activities inside and outside of the classroom that will enhance your learning and a greater connection to the Webster University community. Ask about Learning Communities during your Gorlok Registration and Onboarding Workshops to learn more!
Current LCs
- #BestLife
- Business Minded
- Creative Explorations
- Global Food and Cultures
- The Pen and the Cape
- Mental Health and Mindfulness
- Social Justice
- Transformative Educators
- Words and Pictures
“Four years after I was in the Learning Community, I am still good friends with the people who were in it with me.”
BA in Secondary Education with an Emphasis in English, '17
Webster 101
Webster 101 is a course offered to all freshman students registering for the fall semester, and mandatory for Learning Communities. This course helps guide freshman students through the transition into college and teaches new students how to foster independence and responsibility, as well as how to navigate their new college journey at Webster University.
Peer Mentors
Peer Mentors are a select group of upperclassmen who assist all first-year freshman, transfer, and international students with their transition to Webster University. Each student has a Peer Mentor assigned to them to help foster an engaging environment. All Learning Communities are also assigned a Peer Mentor to help create an even stronger sense of community.
Throughout your first semester, your Peer Mentor will be reaching out to offer guidance and support, don’t be shy to ask for their assistance!
Family Programs
Webster University aspires to include undergraduate students’ parents and families in the life of the University. Recognizing the important role families play in the success of their children's college experience, an engaged family makes for an engaged student.
Billy Ratz
Director of First-Year Experience and Family Programs
Phone: 314-246-7007
Email: ratzwil@webster.edu
Olivia Renkins
Assistant Director of First-Year Experience and Family Programs
Phone: 314-246-2598
Email: oliviarenkins62@webster.edu
