What stands out in the experiences of freshmen? What challenges do freshmen face? What do freshmen change about NIU?

Such are the the questions hoped to be answered at the Freshman First-Year Experience Focus Group at 3:30 p.m. today at Lincoln Hall’s B-wing Multi-Purpose Room.

“The focus group is designed to give us some intimate information about the first-year experience,” said Christopher Kubic, assistant director of orientation and coordinator of First-Year Connections.

First-Year Connections is an orientation program that targets new students. The program includes UNIV 101 courses.

Today’s focus group and the one held on Tuesday represent the first time Kubic has organized this type of activity.

“The focus group is kind of experimental,” Kubic said. “I haven’t done one before, [and] I’m looking forward to it.”

Kubic also said the focus group, which includes refreshments and a small gift for participants, is important for the Office of Orientation and Campus Information to operate effectively.

“This will help me and my staff to better understand first-year students,” Kubic said. “If we don’t understand them, how can we truly reach them and serve them through our programs?”

Kubic also hopes to plan more focus groups, including ones targeting transfer students.

“This is something I would like to do every couple years at least,” he said.

The focus groups are part of what Kubic describes as the best year for the First-Year Connections prorgram.

“We’re serving more students and we have more faculty and staff involved then ever before,” Kubic said. “I’m really encouraged by the support I find on campus from the students and the faculty and staff.”