Resources and Programs | Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Your First Year at WPI

What can you expect from your first year at WPI? Challenging academics, exciting opportunities, new friends, and memorable experiences.

You will also find many resources to guide and support you, both as you transition to college and throughout your first year. You will be part of an Insight Team, a group of students and advisors who will help you adjust to college life and get acquainted with everything WPI has to offer. Additionally, you will have access to support services such as tutoring and other academic resources through the Office of Academic Advising.

You will also have the opportunity to take special project-based courses that are offered exclusively for first year students. Jumpstart your project experience by enrolling in a Great Problems Seminar, an interdisciplinary course that enables you to tackle themes of global importance, such as air pollution, access to clean water, and disease control.

Explore opportunities to get involved! WPI has over 200 clubs and organizations to join, as well as leadership and community activities. There's always something happening on campus!

Academic Advising for First-Year Students

The Office of Academic Advising is here to support your academic journey at WPI. As a first-year student, here are some important things things to know:

Major Declaration: By the end of B-Term, declare your major. You'll then be assigned a Faculty Advisor who will guide you throughout your time here. If you're unsure about your major, we offer resources to help you explore your options. Contact us for more information.
Academic Resources Center (ARC): The ARC provides a wealth of resources to help you excel academically. From M.A.S.H (Math and Science Help) tutoring to Peer Academic Coaching, we're here to assist you. Schedule an advisor appointment anytime at tutortrac.wpi.edu.

Feel free to reach out to us for more information. We're here to ensure your academic success!

Visit Academic Advising site

Meet Academic Advising Team

Insight Program

Wondering how to get involved with activities at WPI, what courses to take in the spring, or how to handle a conflict with a roommate? You’ll find out the answers to these questions and more through your Insight Team, a group of students and advisors dedicated to assisting you with your transition to college, both personally and academically, and helping you make the most out of your first year at WPI.

Learn more about the Insight Program

A student gives a thumbs-up to the camera on the Quad.

Outside the Classroom

There’s lots to do here at WPI and in the surrounding Worcester area to complement the skills you will gain from the classroom, make connections, explore passions, and have fun.

So what are you waiting for? Learn more about opportunities to get involved at WPI.

Find opportunities Watch welcome videos

Timely Updates at Your Finger Tips

Stay informed, connected, and engaged with the WPI app. Get program information for the First-Year Welcome Experience, New Student Orientation, and more. Catch up on the latest news, explore campus, get timely updates, and stay informed—conveniently in the palm of your hand.

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Explore our student guides below

Whether your an international student looking for familiar cuisine from home, or wondering what BME means (we prefer initials here), these resources are here to point you in the right direction.

WPI Acronym & Initial Guide

Student Success Handbook

Gompei's Guide

International Student Handbook

Important Links for First-Year Students

WPI is committed to making sure our students have the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed, both academically and personally.

Explore the following links to access a wide range of resources related to academics, student life, financial aid, technology, support services, and more.

Student Resources and Support

MyWPI

First-Year Student FAQs