Quinnipiac University

University Curriculum

First-Year Seminar

A professor instructs a computing class.

University Curriculum

First-Year Seminar

First-Year Seminar courses start your journey as a lifelong learner, challenging you to explore new and complex ideas from multiple perspectives. You’ll become part of an inclusive, excellence-driven community where meaningful dialogue and collaboration thrive – fostering lifelong connections that extend far beyond the classroom.

Your interdisciplinary education begins here

Quinnipiac’s First-Year Seminar (FYS) marks the beginning of the University Curriculum (UC) and is the launchpad for your interdisciplinary education. These dynamic, discussion-based courses explore today’s most pressing issues through multiple lenses, from science, education and politics to media, race, business and beyond.

With a wide range of course themes – such as leadership, emotional intelligence, societal impact and global questions – you’ll find something that speaks to your interests. Each class is developed and led by a passionate instructor, and many are supported by a Peer Catalyst, creating a collaborative, inclusive space where your voice matters.

FYS is more than a class – it’s a community. You’ll be introduced to the value of cross-disciplinary learning as you collaborate with other students from all majors, build confidence in your voice and begin your journey as a lifelong learner.

Professional scholars and mentors

Our instructors come from all eight of Quinnipiac’s professional schools and the College of Arts & Sciences, bringing a wide range of academic expertise – from business and law to health sciences, communications and beyond. Others come from a variety of offices across campus and draw on real-world experience in roles such as career advisors, school administrators, lawyers and mental health counselors. This rich blend of academic and professional backgrounds ensures that every FYS course offers students a multidimensional and deeply relevant learning experience.

Every FYS course is uniquely crafted by its instructor to spark curiosity and prepare you for the journey ahead. Drawn from their own academic and professional expertise, FYS faculty design courses that introduce recent high school graduates to the excitement and challenges of college-level learning. Whether you're exploring sustainability, sports, science fiction, business success or the complexities of homelessness, your instructor will guide you in unpacking the depth and significance of the issue at hand – helping you think critically, ask big questions and engage with real-world problems.

In Their Words: FYS Faculty

Jamie DeLoma

Jamie DeLoma

Senior Director of Live Channels

“The First-Year Seminar is one of the aspects that best defines what makes Quinnipiac so special. Having the opportunity to partner with a Peer Catalyst to lead a semester-long exploration on an innovative topic pertinent to all of our lives is not just exhilarating, it’s truly an honor – and a portal to learning for both the students and for me.”

Tom Ellett

Chief Experience Officer

Chief Experience Officer

“Teaching FYS allows me to step into a meaningful space where students begin building confidence and a sense of purpose and belonging focused on a longer-term career goal. The relationships formed through open dialogue, shared experiences and collaborative activities enrich not only their journey but also my own work in administration at QU. I am continually inspired by what motivates, challenges and sparks curiosity in each student.”

Headshot of Dan Geraghty

Dan Geraghty

Adjust Professor of First-Year Seminar

“As an educator who reinvented myself after surviving the attacks of September 11, 2001, I have always been fascinated by stories of those who have overcome some of life's biggest obstacles. In our course of study, we explore how individuals can overcome adversity in life through the essential question: ‘Do I get bitter, or do I get better?’ I look forward to engaging in interdisciplinary learning and critical inquiry alongside my students.”

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Richard Kamins

Adjunct Professor of English

“It's impossible to measure how much fun it is to work with students on a subject that has fascinated me my entire life (music). Watching students begin to understand the fundamentals of critical thinking and presentation skills always gives me hope for the future. Teaching alongside Peer Catalysts is also a joy as they are among the best and brightest people at QU.”

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Paul Pasquaretta

Adjunct Professor of English

“First Year Seminar is a great way for students and faculty to investigate the value of community at the heart of the Quinnipiac experience. Focusing on indigenous history (the University takes its name from the Algonquian language), my sections explore the importance of cooperation, reciprocity, and stewardship in fostering a healthy learning environment. Working with smart and curious students makes the process richly rewarding.”

Peer Catalysts

Peer Catalysts are outstanding peer educators dedicated to helping you successfully transition to Quinnipiac University. Working alongside faculty in First Year Seminar (FYS) courses, Peer Catalysts (PCs) play a key role in fostering academic belonging and building a strong classroom community.

As academic mentors, PCs take the time to understand your individual needs and support your intellectual growth into independent, confident, multifaceted thinkers. They model success, build self-confidence, strengthen learning strategies, and encourage you to explore issues from multiple perspectives. PCs lead group discussions and projects and collaborate with faculty to design and implement engaging in-class activities. Outside of class, they offer academic support, mentorship and guidance to campus resources – helping you navigate and thrive in college life. 

In Their Words: Peer Catalysts

Headshot of Lily Elmstrom

Lily Elmstrom ’27

Political Science and Health, Medicine, and Society majors with Forensic Science and Anthropology minors

“The shift from high school to college can be really challenging – there’s so much change all at once, from academics to social life to just figuring out how to be independent. Having someone there to answer questions, give advice and just be a familiar face can make such a big difference! I had such a great experience learning from my FYS Peer Catalyst, and in turn, I wanted to be a resource for other incoming students as a way to give back to my community. It’s really rewarding to see my students grow throughout the course and find their place within the Quinnipiac community!”

Headshot of Justin Cichanowitz

Justin Cichanowitz ’26

Biology major with a Biomedical Sciences minor

“One thing I’ve learned from my position as a Peer Catalyst is the importance of communication and openness in fostering a supportive and collaborative classroom setting. It is important to build relationships with the class as everyone is nervous with their transition into college, and it’s important for them to have someone they can reach out to. It’s been a great experience getting to know the students and helping them engage in the class.”

Nichole Gomez with commencement regalia

Nichole Gomez ’25, MBA ’28

Finance major with an Economics minor

“When I was a first year, I struggled to adjust to college life and the transition from high school. My Peer Catalyst really helped me through that tough time, and that experience made me realize I wanted to do the same for others. When I became a PC, I was able to share what I’d learned and try to make that transition easier for others. I quickly found how much I loved the role and knew I wanted to keep mentoring. Becoming a Peer Catalyst Mentor (PCM) gave me the chance to take that support a step further, helping other PCs make the same kind of difference I once experienced.”

SeSe Allerheiligen in a hard hat posing with Boomer the Bobcat

SeSe Allerheiligen ’25, MS ’27

Software Engineering major

“Being a Peer Catalyst has been a wonderful way to give back to the Quinnipiac community. I remember how nervous I was my first year, and it was nice to have an excuse to ask an upperclassman for advice. Not only is it a wonderful way to grow my own leadership skills, it’s also been a wonderful opportunity to help first-years grow into themselves. I’ve always been big on giving back to the communities that help me, and being a PC has been exactly that.”