Vandals First
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 ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥.
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.
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.
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
- Current U of I students: Download and submit the to vandalsfirst@uidaho.edu or drop it off at TLC 230.
- Incoming students: Submit the via email to vandalsfirst@uidaho.edu.
Join the cohort
Download the intake form and submit it to vandalsfirst@uidaho.edu to join
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.
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.
Real students. Real stories.
Honest answers about life at ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥.
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 ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ 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
- Financial aid: Get answers about tuition, aid and financial planning.
- Scholarships: Use ScholarshipUniverse to find funding opportunities.
- BEAMS Program: Learn money management and financial planning skills.
- Vandal Food Pantry: Access free groceries and 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
- Visit the Counseling and Mental Health Center: Access mental health services and supportive resources at ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥.
- Submit a VandalCare Report: Reach out on behalf of yourself or someone else in need of support. The CARE team provides proactive assistance and follow-up.
Recreation and wellbeing
- Work out at the Student Recreation Center (SRC): Access 80,000-plus square feet of space to exercise, play and relax.
- Join an Outdoor Program trip: Connect with nature, rent gear and join adventures with fellow Vandals.
- Get involved with Vandal Health Education: Take a cooking class, learn about nutrition and discover wellness resources.
Community and belonging
- Join a student club or organization: Choose from over 200 clubs or start your own.
- Get involved in leadership and volunteer opportunities: Make an impact through student government, media, civic engagement and service.
- Study abroad: Experience life, learning and culture in a new country through education exchange.
- Explore fraternity and sorority life: Learn about chapters, recruitment, community involvement and expectations.
- : Stay connected to student activities and campus events.
U of I Moscow, Through the SeasonsÂ
Experience the most beautiful campus in Idaho and it's seasonal display. Â
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 ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ 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 ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ and beyond.
- Tribal Nations Student Affairs offers a range of opportunities that support academic, cultural and personal growth.
Other campus resources
Technology support
- Get help from the Office of Information Technology (OIT): Request tech support, order your VandalCard and find how-to guides and information.
Housing and Residence Life
- Explore Housing and Residence Life: Review your housing options, select a meal plan and submit your housing application.
Center for Disability Access and Resources (CDAR)
- Access support through CDAR: Request accommodations for testing, housing, technology and more to support your academic success.
Graduating seniors
- Complete your graduation steps: Review deadlines, order regalia, pay fees and get ready to celebrate your accomplishments.
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