![brandon mioduszewski brandon mioduszewski](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/400x420_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/img_3998.jpg?itok=6VLFtr9L×tamp=1671484713)
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Brandon Mioduszewski
![brandon mioduszewski brandon mioduszewski](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/400x420_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/img_3998.jpg?itok=6VLFtr9L×tamp=1671484713)
You are here
![McLaughlin McLaughlin](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/400x274_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-post/photos/image1.jpeg?itok=xuZ0Picn×tamp=1632699261)
My FYSEP Experience!
Sometime in mid-June before coming to Dartmouth, I received an email inviting me to participate in the FYSEP program! At the time, I had no idea what I was getting myself into - however, I can confidently say that my experience with FYSEP made my college transition easy and painless.
FYSEP stands for First Year Student Enrichment Program; made for first generation, low-income students, the program eases the complicated and hectic college transition process for those who may need the most support. Coming into college, I was incredibly confused about course selection, majors, extracurriculars, financial aid - it's all so much! However, FYSEP was able to help me figure all of that out while also allowing me to make tons of awesome friends.
I first moved into college in early August, about a month before the rest of the '25s. As a result of the program, all FYSEP students stayed in the same dormitories in the McLaughlin cluster. With everybody so close together all the time, a real sense of community was able to be built over the course of our time together. I still play basketball with my old FYSEP roommate from time to time! Furthermore, most of the friends that I have today are ones that I made during FYSEP.
To keep us busy and prepare us for academics, we had to attend two classes per day, and had three classes total. One of these classes was a general STEM course — over the course of four weeks, we studied computer science, engineering, and biology. We learned the basics of Python, made small breadboard circuits, and experimented with growing plants!
Another course was called 'Cultural Identity & Belonging.' This was essentially an English class where we were able to write essays exploring and sharing our identities; furthermore, at the end of the program we gave presentations on graduated first-gen low-income alumni, and shared what they were able to accomplish in their lifetimes. Going through the Rauner Library's alumni archives was rewarding, as we were able to get a look at what a Dartmouth student looked like a hundred years ago.
Our last course wasn't necessarily academic, but was focused around giving us information about Dartmouth. By learning about all the resources and offices available to me on campus, I started my first day of school already knowing campus like the back of my hand. However, the real benefits of FYSEP weren't academic; while those were helpful, the social transition provided by the program was invaluable. It felt great to start my first day of college with 100 new friends; over the course of FYSEP, I was even able to bond with my peers over the many activities that were going on all the time. Student olympics, pick-up sports, hiking & thrifting trips, the list could go on forever. I'm incredibly grateful for my FYSEP experience, and I urge any prospective first-generation low-income students to research and participate in the program as well!
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As I reflect on my first year, I reminisce on the people, places, and things that made the most of my Dartmouth experience!
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I used my weekends in Berlin to explore the countless flea markets across the city. I found great items and a great way to experience Berlin culture!
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My first time in Seattle, during the week of the 4th of July! Exploring fish markets and watching fireworks, I had a great time exploring a new city during my off-term!
![Profile Picture](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/60x60_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/img_6959_2.jpeg?itok=8Ic27ok0×tamp=1717243884)
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Have you ever thought of working for reunions? Well, neither did I. But it was super fun, come check what it's all about!
![Antonio Jorge Medeiros Batista Silva '25](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/60x60_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/blog_antonio_profile_picture.jpg?itok=z4tVogx3×tamp=1632239532)
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Sophomore summer is in full swing, and with the campus exclusively for sophomores, it's a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere. I'm on campus to enjoy this unique experience, diving into activities like cooking, research, and outdoor outings!
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As my first year at Dartmouth comes to a close, I am interviewing my peers who lived in the interfaith LLC (Living Learning Community) with me.
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It's hard to believe I am closing out my first year of college! Here is a reflection of my experiences this academic year.
![Cal standing on the Dartmouth Green in front of Baker Tower](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/60x60_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/untitled_design_6_-_cal_shin.png?itok=eVUxVOeC×tamp=1697736503)
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Sweets you can't resist. really. can't.
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