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First-Year Launch is a signature part of your first-year experience

In Fall 2026, students will be able to select from a freestanding Launch class or from a Launch class linked to another LAC course.

Freestanding Launch courses

  • Complete this 1-credit course in 8 weeks
  • Explore a topic you’re interested in, build community, and learn strategies to thrive at FLC

LAC-Linked Launch courses

Complete your Launch course and a general education requirement

  • Explore the Launch courses outcomes in the context of an LAC course (for example, learn academic skills while practicing them in a research project)
  • Enjoy extended time for community building and experiential learning
  • Deepen connections with a cohort of peers and a faculty instructor

Interested in these LAC-linked options?  Go to the Filter menu below, click on Interest Area, then choose Liberal Arts Core.

Field trips to Purgatory Resort

 
First-Year Launch

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Maximizing College thru Experiential Learning

Day/time: T/R 11:15-12:10

Description: This course introduces tools, resources, and opportunities essential for student success at FLC. The first part of the course focuses on effective use of Canvas, developing time-management strategies, exploring the Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ¸ßÇåÎÞשÂëÇøcareer ecosystem, and reflecting on the history and legacy of the Fort Lewis Indian Boarding School. The second part of the course invites students to explore experiential learning at FLC, including EXCEL courses, study abroad, internships, and undergraduate research. Students will present their learning through poster presentations at the FYL Showcase.


Plates and Palettes (Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ¸ßÇåÎÞשÂëÇø100) & Intersections between Earth’s Tectonics & Humanity (GEOL206-1)

Day/Time: M 1:25-3:25

The Earth inspires us! Each week, we will experiment with different visual media to capture the natural world around us, and you’ll create a piece that showcases an example of how Earth’s tectonics have affected humanity. No artistic experience is needed – we will focus on exploration, growth, and creativity!

FYL Course LAC Linked


Spilling the College Tea (Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ¸ßÇåÎÞשÂëÇø100) & Intro to Gender and Sexuality Studies (GSS 101-2)

Day/Time: M/W 1:25-2:20

In this launch course, we will spend much of our time trying new teas. While we have our weekly tea parties, we will also spill the college tea. In other words, we will talk about all the things you should know to be successful in college.

FYL Course LAC Linked


The Power of Bridging Differences

Day/Time: M/W 11:15-12:10

College is a place where you will meet people with many different backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. In this course, we explore how curiosity and active listening can help us understand one another and build stronger connections. Through conversations, reflective activities, and collaborative projects, students practice skills such as asking thoughtful questions, listening with empathy, and sharing personal stories. We will explore how these skills support academic success, strengthen group work, and help students communicate effectively with professors and peers.

If you enjoy meaningful conversations, learning about others’ experiences, and building skills that will help you throughout college and beyond, this class is for you.


Theatre Production - Get Involved!

Day/Time: W 1:25-3:25

This Launch class is your chance to get your hands dirty working behind the scenes on an Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ¸ßÇåÎÞשÂëÇøTheatre Department Production. Students will learn new skills working in the Costume and Scene Shops. No previous experience necessary! We'll be preparing two Fall productions - a musical Ordinary Lives, a musical and A Midsummer Night's Dream! Students will enjoy building relationships with their peers as they are mentored by theatre faculty and learn theatre skills.


Travel the World

Day/Time: Mon/Wed 9:05-10:00

Join us as we explore new places around the world and cost-effective ways to get there. Students will pick a destination, research what they want to see and how to get there and create a budget for a two-week trip to the place of their dreams.


Use your words: Building Resilience through Indigenous Language Reclamation

Day/Time: M/W 11:15-12:10

Students will build community and resilience as first time college students through engagement with their Indigenous languages. Classes will include cultural demonstrations, storytelling, and panel discussions from current Indigenous students on what connects students to their cultures and what motivates them to learn their languages. Current students will share heartfelt stories about how and why they learn their languages. Students will find that they can use their language in any space!


Wayfinding Your College Journey

Day/Time: M 1:25-2:20

Learn how to make the most of your college journey by starting with yourself. This course combines self-awareness, career exploration, and life design to help you make intentional choices during your first year. You’ll explore your values, strengths, and interests, connect with others, and consider majors and careers—not as fixed destinations, but as possibilities. This is about learning how to navigate decisions, embrace curiosity, and author your own story.


Wayfinding Your College Journey

M/W 8:00-8:55

Learn how to make the most of your college journey by starting with yourself. This course combines self-awareness, career exploration, and life design to help you make intentional choices during your first year. You’ll explore your values, strengths, and interests, connect with others, and consider majors and careers—not as fixed destinations, but as possibilities. This is about learning how to navigate decisions, embrace curiosity, and author your own story.


Wayfinding Your College Journey

Day/Time: M/W 11:15-12:10

Learn how to make the most of your college journey by starting with yourself. This course combines self-awareness, career exploration, and life design to help you make intentional choices during your first year. You’ll explore your values, strengths, and interests, connect with others, and consider majors and careers—not as fixed destinations, but as possibilities. This is about learning how to navigate decisions, embrace curiosity, and author your own story.


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Contact us

Admission Office

Fort Lewis College
1000 Rim Drive
Durango, CO 81301

Phone: 877-352-2656 or 970-247-7184
Fax: 970-247-7179
Email: admission@fortlewis.edu

Talk with admission counselor

Connect with your admission counselor over the phone, in email, or take a campus tour and meet them in person.