Early connections

Summer programs

EDGE Leadership Program

The Edge Leadership Experience is a four-day program that welcomes first-year students to campus, builds leadership skills, and introduces engagement opportunities to support a successful transition into college. Through hands-on activities and community-building experiences, students are encouraged to grow in confidence, connection, and leadership.

STAR Program

The Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Scholarship Program supports first-year, first-generation, income-eligible Arizona residents in their transition from high school to NAU. Through a summer residential experience, students take college-credit courses, build peer and mentoring relationships, and gain access to campus resources that prepare them to succeed and thrive in their first year.

First-Year Intensive Transition (FIT)

The NAU FIT Program is a one-week pre-semester experience for new students enrolled in BIO 181, CHM 151, AST 180, or PSY 101 that supports their academic momentum. Students move-in early the week before fall classes begin and get a preview of college academics through lectures, labs, and other experiences. They will also build social connections through peer mentorship and group activities. Learn more at nau.edu/FYE.

Mentoring programs

NAU’s mentoring programs connect Lumberjacks with trained student mentors who offer guidance, friendship, and real help navigating college life. Whether you're a first-year student, a transfer student, or someone looking for community and support, our mentoring teams are here to walk with you through your journey.

Mentors are experienced Lumberjacks who know what it feels like to start something new. They share campus knowledge, help you make connections, and cheer you on as you hit your goals. Every program is free, welcoming, and built to help students feel at home at NAU.

NAU offers several different mentoring programs for a wide variety of students. For more information on specific programs and to get involved, contact mentoring@nau.edu.

Why mentoring matters

Mentorship at NAU is built to help students feel connected, confident, and supported.

Mentors help students:

• Build friendships and find community
• Navigate academics and campus resources
• Set goals and stay on track
• Reduce stress and build belonging
• Explore involvement and leadership opportunities

Students who meet with mentors feel more grounded, make stronger connections, and move through college with greater clarity and purpose.

Parents trust mentoring because it gives their students a built-in support network and someone who checks in consistently.

New student onboarding

Onboarding for new NAU students

New Student Onboarding helps new Flagstaff campus students prepare for a successful start at NAU. Through online Canvas modules, live webinars, and in-person events, students learn about campus resources, academic expectations, and how to get connected. Students can ask questions, learn from current Lumberjacks, and build connections early.

What's included:

• Onboarding Modules (Canvas): Online modules completed before arriving on campus that cover academics, campus life, and student success. New incoming students can learn more by visiting the Canvas onboarding modules page.
• Onboarding Webinars: Live virtual sessions with faculty, staff, and students about campus life, financial aid, and support.
• Lumberjack Launch and College Receptions: Experience NAU traditions and get connected to faculty in-person through these fall-term kick-off events.

Onboarding for new veteran students

New Veteran Orientations are designed to help our incoming veteran students have a strong start to their academic journey at NAU.  It is open to online, statewide, and Flagstaff campus Veterans and takes place on the Flagstaff campus.