Housing and Residence Life, a department within Student Engagement and Well-Being, is excited to launch the First-Year Wellness Experience (FYWE), a signature program for all first-year residents focused on fostering their health and wellness throughout the academic year. In alignment with Georgia Tech's Institute Strategic Plan, and in support of one of the core action strategies in the Cultivate Well-Being Roadmap for students, this initiative is focused on cultivate well-being, one of the six areas of focus identified by Georgia Tech. 

"The First-Year Wellness Experience is designed to create an inclusive and supportive environment that enhances the overall student experience. By focusing on holistic wellness and community engagement, we're not just providing a place to live—we're fostering a vibrant, connected community where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally," said Dr. Jenny Cotton, Executive Director of Housing and Residence Life. 

The FYWE’s signature theme will be “In My Wellness Era;" the initiative offers a comprehensive array of activities, events, and workshops, in collaboration with departments across Student Engagement and Well-Being to support students’ personal, academic, and professional growth in their first year on campus.  

“The information and skills residents will learn in the next year will follow through graduation, and form the foundation of a prevention toolkit that can help them succeed both in and out of the classroom,” said Dr. Cotton. 

Resident Assistants are also looking forward to supporting the new initiative and their first-year residents. “I’m really excited about us promoting health and wellness across the residence halls. As an RA, I want to make sure residents feel happy coming into their first-year on campus,” said Selma Aydin, a third-year Industrial Engineering student and Resident Assistant. 

The First-Year Wellness Experience kicked off during Week of Welcome with the Taylor Swift and Friends Dance Party on August 13, where students signed the wellness pledge, danced, and participated in wellness activities, including succulent plant pot painting, and received free resources to kickstart their wellness journey. 

Each month, Housing and Residence Life will focus on one of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, where students will learn relevant skills and receive information about the resources available on campus and how it can support their overall well-being.  

For more information about the First-Year Wellness Experience, visit the First-Year Wellness Experience website.