The First Year Experience Program is a year-long college program focused on providing first-year students with the services and support needed to successfully transition to Mesa Community College.

Partnership with TruWest Credit Union

TruWest Credit Union extends financial support for students participating in the Mesa Community College First Year Experience program by offering financial literacy workshops for program participants and their parents as well as a $40,000 donation to cover school expenses. TruWest’s contributions help with tuition, fees, and textbook costs for participating students; TruWest funds also promote student leadership opportunities through stipends given to FYE ambassadors. Additionally, TruWest has provided part-time employment opportunities for MCC students. TruWest's partnership is integral to the success of our community because it provides stability for our students, so they can focus on learning.

Benefits of the First Year Experience Program

• First Year Experience Program students are placed into cohorts designed to enrich and support their learning experience. Students will take college-level courses along with their learning community.

• Students will receive a scholarship to apply toward two courses during the FYEP Summer Bridge as well as be given an opportunity to earn additional scholarship funds for one cohort course in fall and/or spring semesters.

• Leadership development and community engagement

• Embedded Math Boot Camps and access to Reading/Writing Boot Camp

• Assistance with major/career exploration and the university transfer process

• Financial Aid navigation and individualized educational planning

• Familiarity with the MCC campus, student services, and resources

• Academic enrichment, career, and social activities throughout the year

• Opportunities to meet new people and form lasting friendships

Who can apply?

• Recent graduates (within the last three years) of Mesa Public Schools (MPS) who are entering their first year of college

• First-generation college students and/or those placing into foundational coursework who recently graduated from MPS

2025–2026 Program Dates

Application

You can apply online! Your MPS college advisor can help you select cohort classes that work best for your major or field of interest. Contact melissa.carpenter@mesacc.edu if you have any questions, concerns, or comments.

FYEP YR8 Flyer