CALS THRIVE: A New Student Welcome Experience

Welcome, bright minds and eager spirits, to an experience that will help you put your best foot forward as you begin your collegiatStudents listening to a speakere journey as a student in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciencs (CALS)! As you step on to your path at Iowa State, we are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to participate in CALS THRIVE: A New Student Welcome Experience. 

Over the course of almost 2 days, you'll participate in sessions that provide you a first look at CALS services, experiences, and resources designed to help you navigate the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, presented by the college faculty, staff, and students who run them or have used them.

The program begins in the evening on Tuesday, August 20 and concludes by 2 pm on Thursday, August 22. If selected, you will be able to move in to campus housing on the first day. 

All CALS first year, domestic students are invited to apply for this complementary program, designed to provide a more in-depth look at the college's resources and services. Applications for fall 2024 are currently closed. Students selected for the program will be notified by August 1.

Begin your path at Iowa State here! 

A collage of photos: female student holding lamb, two female students in a lab, two men at a beehive, female student welding with the caption "Session Topics"

Below is a list of sample topics that may be covered during the experience. A final schedule of events will be sent out to participants.

These session topics can help new students navigate their transition to college, feel supported, and make the most of their university experience. 

  1. Introduction to CALS Resources: Explore various support services available to CALS students from the college. 
  2. CALS Tour: Tour the campus locations CALS students might use on their path at Iowa State. 
  3. Academic Success Strategies in CALS: Learn about how the CALS Smart Steps and Pro Steps programs are available to help you be successful academically. 
  4. Student Life and CALS Extracurricular Activities: Discover CALS clubs, organizations, and other extracurricular opportunities available to students in the college. 
  5. Health, Wellness and Safety: Learn how CALS works with professionals on campus to provide resources for your physical and mental health and safety. 
  6. Financial Literacy: Hear tips to apply for CALS scholarships and understand financial responsibilities that come with being a college student. 
  7. CALS Career Exploration and Planning: Learn how CALS Career Services can help you prepare and land internships and full time employment. 
  8. Technology and Campus Systems: Get introduced to the university's online learning platforms, student portals, email systems, and other technology resources essential for academic success. 
  9. Community Service and Civic Engagement: Identify volunteer opportunities, community service projects, and ways to get involved in civic engagement initiatives. 
  10. Q&A Sessions: Ask questions about any aspect of university life, academics, or campus resources. 

Questions? Contact Carah Mabry at camabry@iastate.edu