First Year Transition

First Year Transition Program

Program Overview

The mission of the NTSAF First-Year Transition (FYT) Program is to support the transition of incoming Topping Scholars during their first semester at USC.

Program Outcomes

  • Students will receive ongoing support throughout their first semester at USC in the form of weekly class check-ins.
  • Students will participate in UGST class assignments that will support their understanding of their academic goals.
  • Students will be able to identify appropriate resources on campus
  • Students will develop an understanding of grit, growth mindset, & resilience.

Program Components

  • First Year Transition Program Kick-Off
    • Thursday, August 14 to Friday, August 15, 2025
    • Workshops preparing students to start their first semester at USC
  • UGST 001: First Year Transition and Success (Fall 2025)
    • 2-unit Credit/No Credit course

Program Benefits

Students in the NTSAF First Year Transition Program (FYT) receive:

  • Access to a community of support and specialized attention
  • Opportunities to connect with their peers
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • A technology stipend of up to $2,000 *

*This award is dependent on confirmation from Financial Aid regarding your eligibility

UGST 001: First Year Transition and Success

This course will address academic exploration during the first-year transition to the University and discuss practices that contribute to college student success. Through in-class discussions and presentations by course instructors, USC faculty, staff, alumni, and current students, this course will explore academic areas, strengths-based development, growth mindset and resilience, grit and productive struggle, study strategies and time management, campus resources, careers, and high-impact practices.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the NTSAF First Year Transition (FYT) Program, students must:

  • Be invited to participate in the program
  • Be an incoming freshman Topping Scholar
  • Enroll in and maintain 12+ units (full-time course load)
    • Must enroll in and complete USGT 001 in the Fall semester
  • Mandatory attendance at the First Year Transition Program Kick-Off and Topping Leadership Conference
    • Thursday, August 14 to Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Must complete the online application by the stated deadline to be considered

Please feel free to contact us via email at ntsaf@usc.edu if you have any questions.