First-year Interest Groups

A First-year Interest Group (FIG) is a small community of incoming students who take courses together during their first quarter at the University of Washington. All FIGs include GEN ST 199, a course to help students transition to the UW.

Watch Video about the FIG Program

 

What is General Studies (GEN ST) 199?

GEN ST 199: The University Community is a 2-credit course that helps you adjust to the UW during your first quarter. The course is led by peer instructors and is graded using a credit/no credit scale. Learn more about the GEN ST 199 course.

How do FIGs work?

A FIG is a group of classes linked to a GEN ST 199 seminar. When you register for the GEN ST 199 course, you will be automatically enrolled in all of the FIG courses connected to it. Watch our What's in a FIG? video to learn more.

FIGs are made to be flexible. UW offers clustered FIGs (multiple courses), as well as standalone FIGs (GEN ST 199 only). You can select a FIG that fills your schedule, or add courses to your schedule in addition to a FIG. 

Enroll in a FIG

Why join a FIG?
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More about FIGs

Types of FIGs

Resources for FIGs

Program Information

Meet the FIG Leaders

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favourite spot on campus is the chairs by the water near the fisheries. The water is really calming, and sitting there helps me relax and unwind.

—Lyric Hawk

2025 FIG Leaders