The transition to college can often be difficult. But you are not alone. As part of Take Flight, you will have access to resources that will help you navigate the new waters of higher education. As a first-year student, you will connected to a peer-mentor, participate in several skills-building workshops, and join several community building activities. And, you will have the support of the Center's professional staff who will make you aware of opportunities and assist you in troubleshooting any issues you might encounter. 

Peer Mentoring

Our peer-mentors are current junior and senior students at Catholic University. They are students who know our campus well, and have excelled as student leaders. They represent an array of majors and have vast interests and hobbies that are sure to help you connect. 

During the summer, you will receive a list with all the peer mentors' profiles. You will then select your top choices for a mentor and we will pair you with one of them. The peer-mentor will then meet with you for an introduction session and help answer any initial questions you might have about arriving on campus. During the academic year, your mentor will communicate with your regularly and meet with you at least once a month to make sure you are finding your way around campus. Your mentor will also be available to you throughout the year to answer any questions you might have.  

Skills-Building Workshops

Once a month, we will host a skills-building workshop that will equip you with the tools to succeed. These interactive sessions are specifically tailored to fit your first-year academic journey. Here is a sample of the topics that will be covered throughout the year:

• September
  • How to take notes for a variety of classes.
• October
  • Breaking down your philosophy class.
  • Test-taking and effective communication with faculty. 
• November
  • Writing essentials for a variety of fields.
• January
  • Critical and theoretical thinking.
  • Adjustments needed to thrive in the spring semester.
• February
  • Test-taking essentials and creating your own study guide.
• March
  • Reading and the art of skimming.
• April 
  • Get prepared and rock your finals. 

Community Building

Community building activities are designed to help you strengthen your relationships with peers. These activities include socials, trips to local sites, service projects, and more. Here is a taste of what to expect:

Take Flight Social provides an opportunity to meet all students in Take Flight, catch up with friends and unwind. It will also give you an opportunity to learn more about future activities and events.  

National First-Gen College Celebration celebrates the success of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff. Similar to last year's event, the luncheon will feature student testimonies and community building activities. 

Other activities include:

• Bowling
• Ice-skating
• Karaoke nights
• Pumpkin-patch