The First Year Seminar (FYS) https://www.lasell.edu/academics/academic-centers/academic-advising/first-year-experience.html is part of the Core Curriculum and a requirement for all incoming first year students and transfer students with fewer than 15 credits. The First Year Seminar is a theme-based inquiry course that engages students in a specific area of interest while providing support for a smooth transition into the Lasell University community and the Connected Learning philosophy. Through studying an academic topic, students develop and apply core intellectual skills and receive an introduction to the core knowledge perspectives. At the same time, students connect to the experiences and people that make up the Lasell University Community. Course outcomes are accomplished through engaging activities including reading, writing, class discussions, presentations, team projects, field trips, and exploration of campus resources. Civic engagement and service-learning activities are often part of this course as is participation in the Career Readiness Symposium. Through the seminar, students develop close ties with faculty and peer mentors who serve as advocates for first year students' academic success. Past course titles have included: Exploring Cultures and Languages, Life Skills and Video Games, The Hero in Myth and Culture, The Meaning of Dress, The Spark of Creativity, and Zombies, Vampires and Revolutionaries. This requirement may be fulfilled by taking either course or course (for students enrolled in the Honors Program).