UW will help new students “Saddle Up” for fall semester

The University of Wyoming has announced an effort to instill a sense of community and belonging from the beginning of a students university experience. UW will unveil the Saddle Up program for the upcoming fall semester. 

The weeklong slate will provide incoming students with a realistic preview of college life, with emphasis placed on increasing rates of student success.

Beginning Aug. 14, and operating until the 19, of 2022, Saddle Up will offer students a look into the experience of an academic semester, including participation in classes, homework, fitness and wellness time, college connection time, study time and essential skills sessions. This program, which is mandatory for incoming students, will take the place of previous incoming student activities such as orientation or Cowboy Connect.

Participation in this experience will earn students one credit hour of UW credit.

This program is designed for first-year (freshmen or transfer) students at UW. It will begin with the freshman move-in event in the residence halls Sunday, Aug. 14, followed by a welcome dinner and program kickoff. All attendees will be assigned to small groups of eight students, known as “Poke Packs,” each featuring a current student who will serve as a mentor and coach.

Current UW students will provide mentorship and coaching throughout the week. These Poke Pack leaders will equip incoming students with advice about academic preparation, including note taking, managing time and course loads, exam preparation skills, and exploration of UW’s academic and student support services and experiential learning opportunities.

Parents, prospective students and incoming students can contact the UW Student Success and Graduation Hub at (307) 766-4858 or saddleup@uwyo.edu. A newly developed Saddle Up website also offers more details.