Expand the section navigation mobile menu
Two young men walk together down a hallway in a building on O U's campus.

First Year Resources

These resources empower first-year students to achieve academic success, get connected to the university and learn how to successfully get back on track academically.

COM 1100 Course

COM 1100 is a first-year seminar course designed to help new students successfully transition to Oakland University. Students who take this course are more likely to excel academically and graduate than students who do not enroll in the course. COM 1100 is a one-credit, graded elective course taught by student services staff. Class size is 25 students to allow for meaningful classroom discussion. Talk to your adviser to see if COM 1100 is right for you!

Course Goals

  • Explore personal strengths, abilities and interests and how they contribute to their college experience.

  • Learn skills for successfully navigating the college environment.

  • Learn about OU campus resources and how to use them.

  • Build positive relationships with peers, faculty and staff.

Student Testimonials
“COM 1100 was an excellent way to start my college career. It really helped me to get to know the campus. It was fun and very informative. The instructors were great! They felt like friends I could go to whenever I needed help.”

“This class established a positive atmosphere where all students could feel comfortable with themselves and others. I think it helps students communicate and become more open minded.”

“I loved this class! The activities were fun and interesting. It was one class that I always looked forward to. I wish I could keep this class both fall and winter semester. I will truly miss it!”

“COM 1100 was a great experience for me. Through discussions and other fun activities, I learned what it takes to be a successful student at Oakland University. After this course, I knew what I had to do to reach my goals.”

“I was able to explore my major and decide further what I wanted to do with my life.”

Academic and Career Resources

Peer Tutoring
Tutoring is a free service available to all enrolled Oakland University students currently taking courses at Oakland University. Drop-in and individual appointment tutoring options are available.

Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a free program that provides organized study sessions two to three times a week for students enrolled in traditionally difficult courses. Sessions are conducted by SI leaders who have successfully completed the course and are trained by the Academic Success Center. 

Academic Support
Do you want to learn about ways to study so information really sticks? Tired of spending hours preparing for exams only to find a grade you are unhappy with? Feeling overwhelmed trying to juggling countless assignments, exams and your personal life? The staff at the Academic Success Center can help!

Writing Support
The Oakland University Writing Center is open to OU students, faculty, and staff in all disciplines at any stage of the writing process. The center provides writers with an interested and supportive audience of well-trained consultants who help both novice and expert writers explore ideas, revise drafts, and develop the skills to craft polished works.

Residential Academic Support 
Students living on campus receive specialized support that leads to success inside and outside of the classroom. Here, students can meet with team members who understand the challenges of residential life and help them achieve their educational goals. Every student has the ability to succeed by actively engaging in the learning process and utilizing the resources available.

Career and Life Design Center
Apply for an on-campus jobs and prepare for your future internship or job search.

Campus Involvement Resources

Office for Student Involvement
OSI offers many ways to get connected to other students. Turn your passions into purpose through clubs, events, and leadership opportunities. 

Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI)
The mission of the Center for Multicultural Initiatives is to provide support for underrepresented students' success and to foster an appreciation for campus wide diversity. All CMI programs and services are aimed at creating a diverse, inclusive and vibrant campus. From hosting celebration months honoring the contributions of various cultures to our training programs, we move to uplift and educate on the importance of each voice in creating our OU community.

University Recreation and Well-Being
Stay strong and keep your health front and center by joining virtual and in-person fitness activities. 

Gender and Sexuality Center
This student-centered campus resource works to celebrate, affirm, and empower LGBTQA+ members of the OU community. 

Student Congress
Learn more, get involved, and help fellow students create the best possible experience at Oakland.

Residence Life Association
Find events, activities, and resources to get connected if you are living on campus.

Veterans Support Services
OU is a gold-ranking support service, promoting the educational, career, and personal advancement of veterans, service members, and their dependents. 

First Year Advising Center

North Foundation Hall, Room 101
318 Meadow Brook Road
Rochester, MI 48309-4454
(location map)
(248) 370-3227


Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Orientation & New Student Programs
North Foundation Hall, Room 101
318 Meadow Brook Road
Rochester, MI 48309-4454
(248) 370-GOLD
[email protected]

Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
✎