First-Year Experience

Your next step. Your support system. Your people.

Welcome Home, Riverbats! 🦇

You don't have to figure ACC out alone.

Your First-Year Experience is your starting point and your support system.

It's a journey made up of key moments, connections, and resources designed to help you build confidence, get connected, and be ready for what's next. Wherever you're headed, this is where it begins.

Signature Events, Riverbat Ready Flight Paths, Riverbat Connections, Peer Leaders, and the Academic Planner all work together to build a pathway you can follow on your First-Year journey.

Get Involved

MySL is your hub for getting involved at ACC. Discover events, join organizations, and get involved all in one place. Claim your FREE MySL account today, and join the OFYE MySL page to stay up to date on opportunities designed for your success!

1. Claim your FREE MySL Account

2. Join our OFYE MySL Page

3. Learn More About Upcoming Events

First-Year Experience (FYE) Signature Events

FYE hosts several key events during the Fall and Spring semesters to help you connect, prepare, volunteer, and celebrate.

Orientation & First Year Experience (OFYE) Welcome Party 🥳 🦇

Meet people, have fun, and start your college experience strong—join us at the OFYE Welcome Party!

Culture & Connection Fest

Fall 2026

Tuesday, September 22, 2026
A collaborative, come-and-go celebration that honors ACC's diverse identities while connecting first-year students to campus resources in an affirming, community-centered space.

Midterm Madness

Fall 2026

Monday, October 5, 2026
A coordinated series of high-energy programs during weeks 6–8 that help first-year students prepare for major exams, reduce stress, and normalize help-seeking.

Riverbat Volunteer Week

Fall 2026

Monday, November 16, 2026
A districtwide service initiative that empowers first-year students to build purpose, leadership, and community impact through meaningful volunteer experiences.

First-Year Forward Banquet

Spring 2027

Thursday, April 8, 2027
A formal end-of-year celebration, hosted in the Spring, recognizing first-year students' persistence, growth, and achievement as they complete their first year at ACC.

Riverbat Ready Flight Paths

The Riverbat Ready Flight Paths are organized into four stages that reflect your growing confidence and connection. Using your Suitable App, you can see the virtual roadmap for your First-Year journey at ACC.

Start strong—learn the basics, get connected, and know where to go for help.

Build smart habits, stay on track, and use your resources early.

Stay connected, keep going, and ask for help when you need it.

Find your place, look back on how much you've grown, and keep going—you belong here.

The Meta Badge, unlocked after completing all four themed Flight Paths.

Watch this video to learn more about how to log in to the Suitable App ⬇️

Option 2 Micro-Credentials Reel 2.mp4

Why Digital Badges Matter?

Flight Paths help students build real, essential skills and relationships in their first year.

It also gives them experiences they can talk about in interviews, applications, or when transferring.

So it’s not just about completing tasks—it’s about building a journey they can use beyond ACC.

Put simply, they're your personal highlight reel—a snapshot of your experiences that you can share on LinkedIn, with transfer schools, or future employers. Riverbat

Riverbat Connection

Riverbat Connections are opportunities to connect with your peers, reflect on your college experience, and build confidence in your first-year. Through shared conversations and activities, you'll strengthen your sense of community at ACC.

Riverbat Connection Presents: Find Your Person - Why Every Student Needs a Mentor in Their Corner
Riverbat Connection Presents: It's Okay to Ask - How Getting Help Actually Makes You Stronger
Riverbat Connection Presents: Turn the Setback into the Comeback: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Keep Going
Riverbat Connection Presents: Show Up for Yourself - Mindfulness, Mentorship, and Campus Resources
Riverbat Connection Presents: Finishing the Semester Strong
Riverbat Connection Social (x3)

Orientation & First-Year Experience Peer Leaders

OFYE Peer Leaders are here to support you throughout your first-year. Stay connected for reminders, resources, and real advice from someone who's been in your shoes. Whether you have questions or just need encouragement, your Peer Leaders are one of your first go-to connections at ACC. Email them at ofye@austincc.edu.

OFYE Academic Planner.pdf

OFYE Academic Planner

If this is your first semester at ACC, or if you're a returning student who has been here for years, the Academic Planner is a tool to help you stay organized and on top of your academic journey.

Helpful Links

Top Tips for Your First Week at ACC - Current StudentsFrom arriving on campus to finding your community, we’ve got you covered. Check out these tips from Austin Community College to help you get ready for a great

Student Rights & Responsibilities - Current StudentsACC promotes an environment that enhances academic, cultural, and social enrichment for students, faculty, and staff. Student Rights and Responsibilities

RAVE Alerts: Emergency

ACC has adopted a new Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for communication and response during emergencies.

Student Support | Austin Community College DistrictACC student support helps our students succeed, and it's free and open to all students. Services range from tutoring to groceries and counseling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is First-Year Experience (FYE)?

First-Year Experience is:

Gain Momentum by FLight Plaths

Get involved in Signature EventsIt helps you get connected, stay on track, and feel like you belong—from your first day through your first year.

What’s the difference between Orientation and FYE?

Riverbat Orientation helps you get started (what you need to know).

FYE supports you after that—helping you build habits, find your people, attend events, and stay on track.

Is FYE only for first-year ACC students?

Nope! FYE is for all new ACC students—whether you’re coming from high school, transferring, returning, or starting fresh. It is geared towards first-year students but many of our events are open to all ACC students.

What kind of events are part of FYE?

Things like Riverbat Connection, Signature Events, workshops, and fun campus activities. Look out for these events and programs during your first 6 weeks—they’re key! Learn more on OFYE MySL page

Where do I find FYE events?

Check our OFYE MySL page on our website to stay updated on current events.

What is the academic planner?

It’s your go-to tool to stay organized, set goals, and keep track of important dates and resources—all in one place. Digital version located here.

Who are Peer Leaders?

They’re students like you who have been through their first year and want to help you succeed. Think of them as your go-to for advice, support, and real talk. You can engage with PL through Our Riverbat Connections .

How will FYE help me succeed?

We help you:

Start strong
Stay organized
Build connections
Find support when you need it

Can my family/support system be involved?

Yes! We welcome your “Riverbat Supporters”—anyone who encourages and supports you. They can attend specific Riverbat Supporter Sessions, learn more here..

How can I contact OFYE?

Feel free to email us with any questions you have at ofye@austincc.edu.

Meet the OFYE Team

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