Welcome, to the University of North Alabama! 

As the Director of First-Year Experience and a proud alumna of this incredible institution, it is my honor to officially welcome you to our UNA family. With over 850+ of you embarking on this exciting journey every year, please know that I am here to support you every step of the way. The FYE program helps acclimate you through your first semester, so that you are successful throughout your next 4 years. 

Having walked these same halls as an alumna, and with sixteen years of experience helping students succeed, I can confidently say: YOU belong here. This is the start of something transformative. Lean into every opportunity, and don’t hesitate to reach out, because I am here to cheer you on. 

Here’s to growth, discovery, and success.  

Welcome home! 

Tammy D. Rhodes 

Director, First-Year Experience 

’09 & ‘15 

Roar into Your College Journey 

The mission of the Office of First Year Experience is to assist students with their transition to college and aid in the retention of students at the University of North Alabama. We provide holistic guidance, opportunities, and resources to enable students to actively engage and thrive at the University by becoming learners with a purpose.  

Through programs and courses like the First Year Experience Seminar (FYE 101), our office works with students to realize the value of the intellectual, social, and cultural dimensions of the University of North Alabama.  

With an array of courses, a network for personal support, interactive online resources, and unique living/learning experiences, The First Experience program helps new students at the University of North Alabama achieve success and start understanding their passions.