PEAW FAQ
What is a First Year Experience Course?
The First Year Experience courses, more commonly called the PEAW (Personal Awareness) 1300 courses, are academic courses designed to support student learning and development in the critical first semester of college. To ease the transition of students into the college environment, over 94% of the nation’s colleges and universities have implemented such courses. Research has shown that the first year experience course significantly enhances a student’s ability to succeed in college. In addition to helping students succeed, this course is designed to convey the excitement and possibilities of the learning experience at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR). [back to top]
Who can enroll in the First Year Experience courses?
The First Year Experience Course curriculum was designed for first year freshmen, though some students do elect to enroll in this course after their first year. [back to top]
What are the benefits of taking the First Year Experience course?
The relatively small size of the class allows your instructor to act as a mentor and your classmates to become your friends. Students consistently report that the courses aid significantly in making the transition from high school to college-level writing and thinking. The courses also introduce you to the resources of the university and assist you in identifying interesting subjects for further research and future careers. Research has shown that Freshman Seminar courses significantly enhance a student’s ability to succeed in college. [back to top]
How do I enroll?
In your University College Academic Advising Session, discuss this option with your advisor. These First Year Experience Courses are in high demand for the fall semester and may fill up quickly. [back to top]
Are there other Personal Awareness Classes that I can enroll in?
Yes, aside from PEAW 1300 (The First Year Experience), the University of Arkansas also offers PEAW 1310 (Library Research and Resources) and PEAW 1124 (Chancellors Leadership Corp). For a description of these courses, click on the Course Descriptions link. [back to top]
Can I enroll in both PEAW 1300 and PEAW 1124?
Yes, you can enroll in both a PEAW 1300 and PEAW 1124. The course PEAW 1124 is required for all Chancellors’ Leadership Corp students. [back to top]
Do I receive credit towards my degree for taking a PEAW Course?
Yes, students earn a letter grade of A, B, C, or NC (no credit) that counts towards graduation at UALR. If you are planning to transfer to another University, then you will need to check with that institution to determine whether or not you will receive credit for this course. [back to top]
Who can I contact to discuss the results of the FYI Survey?
For more information about this survey and related documents, contact Thea Zidonowitz Hoeft, Ed.D. [back to top]