What is the difference between the First-Year Interest Group (SLS 1411) and The Learning Community (SLS 1412)?
A FIG (SLS 1411) is a 1-credit course offered across many majors and colleges that helps you get college-ready while building connections through a mix of online learning and in-person sessions. It is designed for students who have elective credits.
In contrast, The Learning Community (SLS 1412) is a 0-credit course that is free to students who have no elective space in their majors.
It is only available to:
- Exercise Science/Health Promotions & Health Science majors
- Computer Science and Data Science & Analytics Majors or other Engineering major
- First Generation students from all majors
Similar to the FIG (SLS 1411), in The Learning Community (SLS 1412), students will connect with peers in their major and build their academic skills to support their transition into Florida Atlantic and college life, but through in-person sessions.
Why Join?
- Whether you’re in a FIG (SLS 1411) or Learning Community (SLS 1412), the goal is the same: to help you start strong at FAU and help you feel connected early.
- By joining, you can:
- Meet other first-year students who are in your major (or closely related majors)
- Connect with a staff or faculty member in your college and get the inside scoop on the opportunities and expectations in your major
- Get familiar with FAU resources, people, and opportunities that can help you succeed
- Learn practical strategies for college life like time management, studying, staying motivated, and getting help when you need it
- Feel more confident navigating your first semester
HOW DO I JOIN?
- Check which course applies to you:
- SLS 1412 (The Learning Community) is only for these majors:
- Exercise Science/Health Promotions & Health Science majors
- Computer Science and Data Science & Analytics Majors or other Engineering majors
- First Generation students from all majors
- All other eligible students typically join SLS 1411 (FIG) through their college (or an Undecided FIG if you haven’t declared a major yet).
- Register in MyFAU using the CRN (5-digit number) or the section information listed for your college’s course option. You can find these numbers in the program list.
- Make sure the meeting time doesn’t conflict with your other classes.
- If you’re not sure which one you should take or you don’t see the right section for your major, your best next step is to:
- Visit the program list or ask your academic advisor.
- If you’re not sure which one you should take or you don’t see the right section for your major, your best next step is to:
If you have any questions about First-Year Experience classes at FAU, email isucceed@fau.edu
.