Wildcat First 8 FAQ
Understanding the Wildcat First 8 - FAQs
What is Wildcat First 8?
Wildcat First 8 is a student-centered way to build connection, confidence, and familiarity with UK during the opening weeks of the academic year. It organizes the experience around three ideas – People, Places, and Pathways – and encourages each student to begin with a manageable action that fits their circumstances.
What do People, Places, and Pathways mean?
People are the peers and UK employees who know, notice, encourage, or guide a student. Places are the campus spaces and communities where a student feels comfortable, grounded, productive, or connected. Pathways are the activities, services, opportunities, routines, and supports that help a student build momentum.
Is Wildcat First 8 a required program or checklist?
No. It is an invitation and a practical guide – not a test of whether a student is having the “right” college experience. Students can choose the questions and next steps that feel useful to them.
Do I have to accomplish everything within eight weeks?
No. The first eight weeks are an important period for beginning relationships and routines, but belonging and confidence develop at different speeds. You can start small, adjust course, or begin again later in the semester.
Does this apply to commuters, students living off campus, transfer students, or students with a different starting point?
Yes. The examples may look different depending on your circumstances, but every student can identify people who support them, places where they can connect or focus, and pathways that help them move forward.
Student FAQs
How should I choose a first step?
Begin with the area that feels most useful today. Introduce yourself to one person, return to one reliable place, or explore one organization, job, event, academic support, or campus service. You are choosing a starting point – not making a permanent commitment.
What if I have not found my people or a place where I belong?
That does not mean you are behind. Connection often develops through repeated small interactions: returning to the same space, attending an event more than once, talking with a classmate, visiting an instructor, meeting with an advisor, or letting someone know you would like help getting connected.
What if I feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure whether I belong?
Start with one honest conversation. You might contact an RA, residence hall staff member, advisor, instructor, peer, coach, organization, Center for Support and Intervention case manager, TRACS clinician, or another trusted person. You do not need to have the perfect words or know which resource is correct before reaching out.
I know I need help, but I am not sure what kind.
You do not need to diagnose the problem. Visit Get Help to ask a question, seek assistance, or share a concern. The Center for Support and Intervention can help with life and college stressors, problem-solving, and resource navigation. TRACS can help with mental health assessment, clinical support, crisis care, and connection to counseling.
What if I tried something and it did not help?
Try a different person, place, or pathway – or ask someone to help you identify another option. A first attempt that does not fit is information, not failure. Building your UK experience is an ongoing process of noticing, adjusting, and trying again.