First- & Second-Year Experience

Excellence Begins Here.

Your first two years aren’t just the beginning – they’re the foundation of everything. Step into your story with confidence, purpose, and a community that believes in you.

Group of students gathered together in front of the student center.

About FSYE

Where Every Panther Find Their Foundation

The Office of First- & Second-Year Experience serves as Prairie View A&M University’s gateway to student transition, engagement, and success. A successful college experience begins long before a student walks into the classroom – it begins with preparation, meaningful connections, purposeful engagement, and a sense of belonging.

Through intentional programming, personalized support, and leadership development, we help students build the confidence, skills, and relationships necessary to flourish during their first two years and beyond. FSYE was created to ensure that every Panther has access to those opportunities.

Our programs introduce students to the traditions that define Prairie View A&M University while fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, leadership, and service.

Who We Are

Guided by Purpose, Driven by Impact

Mission

Empowering Your Transition

We empower students to successfully transition into Prairie View A&M University through innovative programs, intentional engagement, leadership development, and peer support that foster academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifelong commitment to learning and service.

Vision

A National Model for Success

To be recognized as a national model for first- and second-year student success by cultivating an inclusive community where every Panther is equipped to achieve academic excellence, embrace leadership, develop meaningful relationships, and graduate prepared to make a positive impact.

Philosophy

Success by Design, Not Chance

Student success does not happen by chance. It is cultivated through intentional experiences, meaningful relationships, and purposeful engagement. Every student deserves the opportunity to begin their college journey with confidence and clarity.

Every program we build answers four questions:

Can I succeed here?

Do I belong here?

Who can help me?

How can I become the best version of myself?

What We Do

Five Programs. One Unstoppable Foundation.

Each program plays a distinct role in helping you transition successfully while developing the academic skills, leadership capacity, and sense of belonging that drive Panther success.

Two student volunteering with PVAMU welcome week.

New Student Orientation

Your first official introduction to the Panther family. Orientation prepares you for academic success, campus resources, and the traditions that define Prairie View A&M University.

Summer Bridge Program

An immersive pre-college experience that strengths academic readiness, builds community, and gives you a head start on your university journey before the fall semester begins.

Panther statue in front of the student center.

Emerging Leaders Institute

A leadership development experience designed to cultivate confident, service-minded leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact on campus and in their communities.

Panther Camp

An immersive campus experience that builds friendships, school spirit, and a sense of belonging before classes begin. Connect with fellow Panthers and discover what it means to be part of the PVAMU family.

PAWS Peer Mentoring

Connecting new students with experienced peer mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the first year. Your mentor has been where you are – and they’re here to help you succeed.

Our People

The Team Behind Your Success

A dedicated team committed to helping new Panthers transition, connect, lead, and succeed during the first two years at Prairie View A&M University.

Dr. Tracey Beasley

Director, First- & Second-Year Experience

Provides strategic leadership for FSYE within University College. His work focuses on student transition, retention, leadership development, peer engagement, and high-impact experiences.

Melanie Prudhomme

Dr. Melanie Prudhomme

Program Coordinator II

Supports the coordination, planning, and implementation of FSYE programs and student engagement initiatives for smooth transition into university life.

Latorshia Kirby

Administrative Associate II

Provides administrative and operational support for FSYE, assisting with office coordination, communication, logistics, and student-facing support.

Get in Touch

Ready to Begin Your Panther Journey?

For questions regarding New Student Orientation, Panther Camp, Emerging Leaders Institute, PAWS Peer Mentoring, Summer Bridge, or general FSYE programming, students and families may contact us for assistance.

  • Office Location
    Office of First- & Second-Year Experience
    University College
    Prairie View A&M University
  • Phone
    (936) 261-5912

“Step into your story. We’ll make sure you’re ready.”