Vandals First

Snapshots from Start Up Orientation week, featuring FSL events, friendship bracelet making, Palousafest, Vandal Scramble, Screen on the Green, Move-In, Family Send-Off, and the Multicultural BBQ.

Navigating college can be challenging, especially if you're the first in your family to attend or you need extra support. The Vandals First Office (VFO) is here to partner with you. Through academic resources, mentorship and community building, we make sure you have the tools to succeed at University of Idaho. 

How we support you

  • Find answers: Not sure where to start? Stop by the VFO during office hours for guidance.
  • Join the Vandals First Cohort Program: Get access to one-on-one advising, tutoring, an orientation retreat, social events and more.
  • Attend workshops: Learn about financial aid, time management, career planning, mental health and other key topics.
  • Get a mentor: Connect with an experienced student through the PACE Peer Mentoring Program.
  • Celebrate success: Your achievements matter. We recognize and honor first-generation students through special events and speakers.

Quick links

Vandals First Cohort Program

College is easier when you have a strong support system. The Vandals First Cohort Program helps you build a foundation for success through personalized advising, academic support and a close-knit community. If you're a first-generation student or need extra guidance, this program is designed for you.

Snapshots from Start Up Orientation week, featuring FSL events, friendship bracelet making, Palousafest, Vandal Scramble, Screen on the Green, Move-In, Family Send-Off, and the Multicultural BBQ.

What you get

  • Monthly advising sessions to keep you on track
  • Weekly study tables with tutoring
  • A three-credit first-year course to set academic and personal goals
  • A leadership retreat to connect with peers
  • Social events to build friendships and community

How to join

Student recieves advising from College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) Advising Specialist, Alondra Ibarra, at the UIdaho Bound event on the University of Idaho campus, June 14th, 2024

Join the cohort

Download the intake form and submit it to vandalsfirst@uidaho.edu to join

Download the form (PDF)

PACE Peer Mentor Program

Starting college is easier when you have someone to guide you. Our Peer Advising on the College Experience (PACE) program connects you with an experienced student mentor who can help you navigate U of I.

Snapshots from Start Up Orientation week, featuring FSL events, friendship bracelet making, Palousafest, Vandal Scramble, Screen on the Green, Move-In, Family Send-Off, and the Multicultural BBQ.

Why join?

  • Build a strong academic and social support network
  • Connect with faculty and staff
  • Learn how to navigate financial aid, academic advising and campus services
  • Meet new people and make lifelong friends
  • Get personalized advice and guidance to make your first year a success

Become a Mentee — More details coming soon. 

Vandal students talk about life on campus.

Real students. Real stories.

Honest answers about life at University of Idaho.

Vandals First Resource Hub

Success at U of I goes beyond the classroom. Whether you need academic support, financial guidance or help planning your future, resources are available to keep you moving forward.

Support resources

Academic support
  • Academic advising: Find your advisor and schedule an appointment.
  • Academic coaching: Work one-on-one to improve study habits and overcome challenges.
  • Tutoring: Get free, drop-in tutoring across many subjects.
  • SI-PASS: Join peer-led study sessions for challenging courses.
  • Writing Center: Get help with essays, research papers and job applications. 
Financial support
Additional support

Career support

  • Explore Career Services: Discover on- and off-campus job opportunities, get help with your resume and interview skills, attend career fairs and more.

Mental health and wellness

Recreation and wellbeing

Community and belonging

Seasonal Fall Campus Stock Imagery

U of I Moscow, Through the Seasons 

Experience the most beautiful campus in Idaho and it's seasonal display.  

Other campus support programs

There are many support programs that meet students’ unique needs. Explore more below:

  • International Programs Office supports international Vandals and their dependents on F, J and employment visas by providing advising on immigration and cultural topics and by organizing events and activities.
  • Military and Veteran Services help you apply for and receive VA education benefits whether you are a veteran, guardsman, reservist, on active duty or a dependent of a veteran.
  • Raven Scholars program is an individualized, supported-transition program for University of Idaho students on the autism spectrum
  • Student Support Services - TRIO (SSS-TRIO) program provides individual academic and personal support to eligible undergraduate students to help them succeed at University of Idaho and beyond.
  • Tribal Nations Student Affairs offers a range of opportunities that support academic, cultural and personal growth. 

Other campus resources

Technology support

Housing and Residence Life

Center for Disability Access and Resources (CDAR)

Graduating seniors

Your support team

You’re not alone in your journey at U of I. The Vandals First Office is here to support you every step of the way.

Jesse Martinez
Director  
208-885-7716
jessem@uidaho.edu

Denessy Rodriguez
Program coordinator
208-885-2094
denessyr@uidaho.edu

Daniel Olivo
Academic retention specialist
208-885-1099
olivo@uidaho.edu

Jessica Betancourt Medina
Academic retention specialist
208-885-2093
jessicabm@uidaho.edu

Yadira Rojas
Business specialist
208-885-7716
yrojas@uidaho.edu