By Laurie Bridges and Raymond Pun

Among the most effective ways to improve student retention and success is the promotion of diversity and global learning services. To increase students’ multicultural awareness and develop their sense of belonging within the community, this high-impact practice (HIP) can be integrated into library services. In this interview with FYE Correspondent Raymond Pun, Laurie Bridges, an Instruction and Outreach Librarian at Oregon State University Libraries shares her thoughts and activities in supporting international programs for students on campus and abroad. 

By Rob Snyder and Raymond Pun

In this interview, FYE Correspondent Ray Pun interviews Rob Snyder from Bowling Green State University Libraries (BGSU). Rob discusses his role in supporting the FYE on campus, and his upcoming plans to expand partnerships and support in academic and student affairs programs.

By Katelyn Angell and Raymond Pun

In this week’s interview, FYE correspondent Raymond Pun speaks with first year success librarian Katelyn (Kate) Angell from Long Island University’s (LIU) Brooklyn Campus Library. She shares her experiences in designing collaborative programs including contests, common reads, and public programs.

By Marie R. Kennedy, Cheryl LaGuardia, and Raymond Pun

FYE Correspondent Raymond Pun recently interviewed Marie R. Kennedy and Cheryl LaGuardia, co-authors of Marketing Your Library’s Electronic Resources: A How-To-Do-It Manual For Librarians (Second Edition). They shared their thoughts and marketing strategies for promoting e-resources to students, particularly those in the FYE.

By Orlando Leon and Raymond Pun

Hackathons support high-impact practices (HIP) through student engagement with innovative research and collaboration. In this interview, FYE Correspondent Raymond Pun talks with Orlando Leon, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Fresno State about Leon’s experiences and thoughts on hackathons, and delves into the important skills students gain from organizing and participating in such events.

By Paschalia Terzi, Joseph Yap, and Raymond Pun

FYE correspondent Raymond Pun recently interviewed librarians from Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan to talk about how they reach out to first year students. Introducing students to the "Western" style academic library is a big transition for some, along with the more universal transitions students face when arriving on campus. Their conversation touches on the challenges of building an institution-wide information literacy program, as well as collaborative efforts with various offices and departments. 

By Danielle Rapue and Raymond Pun

FYE Correspondent Raymond Pun recently interviewed Danielle Rapue from Pasadena City College to talk about her experiences in teaching research skills and information literacy to students online. Danielle shares some of her experiences and thoughts about teaching these classes, and how important and helpful they can be for academic librarians today.

By Hiromi Kubo and Raymond Pun

April 21-28 is Money Smart Week (MSW)! Co-sponsored and promoted by ALA and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, this national campaign aims to help consumers manage their personal finances and develop financial literacy skills. Many libraries participate in this effort by promoting financial trainings and resources to students and the general public. It is also an opportunity to focus conversations and training on this important matter and how it relates to managing student debt and loans. Below are some ideas to consider as you prepare for MSW in your library!

By Jody Burum and Raymond Pun

FYE Correspondent Raymond Pun talks with Jody Burum, Career Counselor at Fresno State, who discusses the importance of Career Development/Internship experiences in the academic curriculum. Career development/Internships are considered a high impact practice (HIP), an active learning approach that can increase student engagement and retention. In this post, they explore how their collaboration supports students' career success.

Since 1996, April has been designated National Poetry Month, a time to celebrate poetry through greater awareness and public engagement. Your library's participation in this annual observance can serve as a fun way to engage students and cultivate the type of interactive relationships essential for first year success initiatives and more. Here are a few activities to consider: