A First-year Interest Group (FIG) is a small community of incoming first-year students that take a group of classes together during their first quarter at the University of Washington.
The FIG program began in 1987 as a means of creating small, intentional learning communities within the large university setting. Over its 30+ year history, it has become a cornerstone experience for new students to support their transition to the UW. FIGs are offered during the first quarter on campus and have clusters of classes linked to a GEN ST 199 seminar course facilitated by peer instructors.
If you are needing or wanting to adjust your class schedule as it relates to FIG courses, complete our help form to recieve support for FIG enrollment.
What's in a FIG? FIGs are built to be flexible — so you can select a full FIG or add classes to a FIG. Watch this short video to get an idea of how FIGs work.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
New students MUST attend the RSO fair. It may be crowded and rainy but it is the best way to learn about all the different kinds of communities and activities that are available UW students. These clubs cover hundreds of topics, interests, identities, and anything you could think of. Go discover what is out there for you at UW!
—Sydney Engel, FIG Leader
120 Mary Gates Hall Box 352825
Seattle, WA 98195-2825
Mary Gates Hall 120
Academic Year: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.
Summer: Mon-Thurs 7:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., Fri 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Winter Break: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Commuter and Transfer Commons (HUB 141)
Academic Year: Mon-Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Breaks & Summers: Closed
Closed during University holidays.
206-543-4905 (Voice)
206-207-5564 (Text)
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