Writing and Learning

Connect. Collaborate. Achieve.

The Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program

Kick-start Your Academic Journey

At Cal Poly, we're all about setting you up for success from day one. The Support Pathways for First-Year Students Program is your launchpad into college life, offering pathways and resources designed to nuture your sense of belonging and prepare you to tackle General Education (GE) and major course requirements.   

Why wait until fall? Get ahead by earning college credits before your first fall term with English and Math courses that help hone your skills, build your confidence, and gear you up for fulfilling GE written communication (A2) and math/quantitative reasoning (B4) requirements within your first year. Ready to get an early start? Visit the Summer Pathways page for more information.

From day one through year one, we've got your back. Our learning support services are designed to help you make connections, strengthen study strategies, and cultivate the critical skills you need to thrive in your classes. Success is a journey, and seeking support is a smart part of the plan. Curious about what’s available? Check out the Learning Support page for more information!

Your first year is about more than hitting the book—it's about finding your place and making your mark. Discover the range of resources available across campus that can enhance your experience and elevate your academic journey. Ready to live your best college life? Explore the Additional Resources page for more information.

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Big News!

Come visit us in our temporary space in the Graphic Arts Building (26), Room 110A.

Tutors are available to support your learning during Summer Term! Click here for summer tutoring hours.

Connect. Collaborate. Achieve.
We look forward to supporting your learning!

Academic Preparation and Transitions

The Academic Preparation and Transitions Department plays an integral role in help incoming first-year students prepare for a successful college experience through the Early Assessment Program and the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students program. More information is available on the Academic Preparation and Transitions webpage

Learning Support Programs

The Learning Support Programs department offers a comprehensive menu of programs and resources designed to help you navigate course expectations and achieve your learning goals: free tutoring for subjects across the curriculum, peer-led supplemental workshops and study sessions for STEM-specific courses, and an online study strategies library. More information is available on the Learning Support Programs webpage. 

Graduation Writing Requirement

All undergraduate students who are seeking a Cal Poly degree must fulfill the GWR before a diploma can be awarded. Students must have upp division standing (completed 90 units) before they can attempt to fulfill the requirement and should do so before the senior year. The two pathways to GWR completion are 1) in an approved upper-division course and 2) via the GWR Portfolio. More information is available on the GWR webpage