First-Year Experience

Start with Science to discover, connect, engage and belong

Your first year at Oregon State is a powerful start to something bigger. With support from the university and the College of Science, you’ll chart your own academic course, build meaningful connections and grow in ways you may not yet imagine. You'll learn more about this throughout your New Student Onboarding process—and keep building from there.

Your first year is full of opportunity. Explore your interests early through science clubs, cultural centers, internships, fieldwork, undergraduate research and campus events. These experiences shape your academic journey—and your future.

Your first year will fly by.
From late-night eats to must-attend events, here is what our students said their must-do things were during their first year and before they graduate.

First-year bucket list

The Etihad Cultural Center on campus is home to a large population from central, southern and western Asia as well as northern Africa. Etihad means unity.

Team Science: You belong here

Our students come to science with many different backgrounds, experiences and goals—and we consider this diversity as one of our greatest strengths. In the College of Science, you’ll find a community that welcomes you, supports you and values who you are. Whether you’re the first in your family to attend college, transferring from somewhere else or still figuring out where you want to go, you belong here.

How we value diversity

Three female students using a portable whiteboard to study chemistry together in a room with soft blue walls and science illustrations.

Science and mathematics majors enjoy the engaging space of the Science Success Center's study lounge.

Get to know the Science Success Center

The Science Success Center is a go-to hub for your first-year experience in the College of Science. It’s a central place to study, meet with peer advisors and tap into academic and career resources as you get your bearings. Whether you're exploring majors, looking for research opportunities or just need a quiet spot to recharge, the SSC is here to help you find your footing and feel at home.

One of the most popular tools among our incoming science students is our custom academic planner—created specifically to support your first year. It’s packed with key dates, study tips and campus resources to help you stay organized and make the most of your time at OSU. You’ll receive your planner at the College of Science welcome social, where we’ll help you start strong, stay connected and feel ready for what’s ahead.

Check out our Science Success Center page

Are you a transfer student?

Learn about our transfer experience.

What you need to know

Connect with your Team Science community

Your journey at Oregon State begins with New Student Onboarding, where you’ll discover many ways to connect—with our programs, your classmates, faculty and the Corvallis community.

We’ve built a strong support system to help you navigate your first year. You’ll connect regularly with your academic advisor, who will guide you through course planning, campus resources and career exploration. Along the way, you'll find spaces—like the Science Success Center—designed to help you stay grounded and supported.

We’re here with the tools, people and community you need to set goals, find your direction and thrive at OSU.