Entering Freshmen

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🐬 Welcome, New Dolphins!

Congratulations and welcome to the College of Staten Island!

We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to become part of our Dolphin family! The first few months of your CSI journey are all about helping you make a smooth transition to college life. To get started, you’ll take part in a few important steps designed to prepare you for a successful first semester.

Your Freshman Onboarding Checklist

To begin your journey at CSI, you’ll need to:

  • Complete any required Assessment Testing (for English as a Second Language [ESL] students)
  • Take the Fast Track to Language Proficiency Exam (if required)
  • Submit your Immunization Requirements
  • Attend a mandatory Advisement and Registration (CART) session
  • Participate in New Student Orientation

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll officially finish the Freshman Onboarding Process—and you’ll have your first-semester schedule ready to go!

Get Ready to Dive In!

Starting college is an exciting milestone—and we’re proud to welcome you to CSI! The journey ahead will bring new challenges, meaningful connections, and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. Remember, you’re not alone—our faculty, advisors, and staff are here to support you every step of the way.

Welcome aboard, and get ready to make waves at CSI! đŸŒŠ

đŸ’» What to Expect at Your Advisement and Registration (CART) Session

Your CART session is where everything comes together! During this important event, you will:

  • Review your degree requirements and explore general education courses for your first semester
  • Choose a Block (a pre-packaged set of linked classes) and select two additional courses
  • Register for your classes through CUNYFirst
  • Review your financial aid package and/or tuition payment options
  • Sign up for English or Math Intervention Programs (if required)
  • Obtain your CSI email and IT access
  • Complete your Post-CART Checklist

We Can’t Wait to Meet You!

Your adventure as a CSI Dolphin is just beginning. Each step you take—from orientation to your first day of class—brings you closer to your goals. We can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish here at the College of Staten Island.

Welcome to CSI—where your future begins! đŸ’™

Entering Freshmen Online Resources

First-Year Students

By now, you should be settling comfortably into your classes—and that’s a great start! But your first two years at CSI are about much more than coursework. During this time, you’ll make important decisions, explore academic interests, and begin shaping your college and career goals.

To help you along the way, the professional advisors in the Center for Advising and Academic Success (CAAS) will work closely with you until you have earned 44 college-level credits. By that point, you’ll declare your major and transition to working with faculty advisors within your academic department.

Your Goals as a First-Year Student

As you begin your CSI journey, focus on these key goals:

  • Complete all required remediation within your first year (if English is your primary language) or within two years (if English is your secondary language).
  • Develop a solid understanding of CSI’s academic resources, tools, and support systems.
  • Learn to navigate and use these resources effectively so that you can make confident, well-informed academic decisions.
  • Take an active role in your educational planning process and stay invested in reaching your long-term goals.

Your first year lays the foundation for everything that follows—so stay curious, stay connected, and take full advantage of the opportunities and support available to you. The CAAS team is here to guide you every step of the way!