12 FYS Textbook Talks
As you continue to design an optimal LaGuardia experience, listen to the various LaGuardia students who’ve read the textbook, as they share the different resources that helped design their experience at LaGuardia. They share the resources that have helped them in their native language.
Their resources can help you shape your own LaGuardia experience. To view their experiences click on the red triangle to the left of “Meet ___”. You’ll see the video along with an English Transcript.
1. FYS Textbook Talks Spanish
“Always ask. Never leave a question unanswered.”
Meet Nirvana
Highlights:
English Transcript:
This is my favorite place to invite you all to read the First Year Seminar Textbook. There is a lot of information to share in the book. Why did I choose Section 4: Introduction to Research in the textbook? I chose it because it talks about my favorite place, the library. There is a lot of information and resources to share. For example, did you know you can borrow an iPad for 7 days and even a computer like this one, for the whole semester? As well as calculators for math and we even have graphic calculators that you can get with your EMPLID. But please take care of these devices, so that other students can benefit from them as well. I would also like to share something that I learned a long time ago, which has helped me a lot here at school and in my daily life. Always ask. Never leave a question unanswered. My professor once said, there aren’t any dumb questions, just dumb people who don’t ask. That is what I would like to share with you all. That is what I would like to share with you all. Welcome all to LaGuardia. Welcome!
2. FYS Textbook Talks Bangladesh
“Identity is not something fixed; it grows as we connect with others and take ownership of our goals.”
Meet Nafiz
Highlights:
English Transcript:
One topic from my First Year Seminar Textbook that made me reflect deeply on my identity and goals was the college identity section. Learning about LaGuardia’s diverse community, students from over 145 countries have helped me see how my own background adds to that diversity. Reading over other students’ stories of perseverance and belonging reminded me that identity is not something fixed; it grows as we connect with others and take ownership of our goals. Another activity that stood out was building my ePortfolio. It pushed me to reflect on who I’m becoming as a student and future professional – seeing my progress made my goals feel more real. Through the FYS textbook, I learned that success isn’t just about grades; it’s about self-discovery, community, and growth. It helped me feel like I truly belong at LaGuardia and gave me the confidence to keep pushing towards my dreams.
3. FYS Textbook Talks Chinese
“The most important about the college is that it is a marathon, not a sprint”
Meet Sunny
English Transcript:
“I think one of the most important things about the college is that it is a marathon, not a sprint. During my LaGuardia journey, I sometimes had a hard time staying motivated. However, I truly appreciate the First Year Seminar textbook. One of the lessons from it is that nothing worth doing is easy. Even in the classes that I didn’t enjoy, I had to remember that I had an end goal in my mind and also everything I was learning would be useful one day. Even if I didn’t know how it would turn out. If you are a new student coming, I recommend you to approach all your classes with an open mind. Even if you get discouraged, because of the grade or exam, always keep in mind that it is not the end of the world. It is just feedback to help you do better next time. Developing skills takes time and effort. I wish you the best on your LaGuardia Journey!”
4. FYS Textbook Talks Burmese
“I have some initial worries about whether I will be able to adapt. But the FYS textbook helped me overcome those worries”
Meet Wai
Highlight:
English Transcript:
“My name is Wai Phyo Paing, I am an international student majoring in physical science with a specialization in physics. As an international student, I encountered many challenges during my early college days while studying abroad. As I begin my higher education in a new and unfamiliar country, I have some initial worries about whether I will be able to adapt. But the FYS textbook helped me overcome those worries. Section 1 of the textbook, “Immigrants and International Students”, has been very helpful in making my college days smoother. The information from Section 1, such as how to maintain an F1 visa, how to select courses aligned with my degree pathway and how to adapt to school life has helped me enjoy my college days more. Especially the resources section, which explains how to apply to scholarships, the benefits available to me as a CUNY student, encourages me to continue my education. For international students like me who come from different countries to make your college experience smoother and more productive, I would recommend reading the FYS textbook!
5. FYS Textbook Talks French
“Thanks to the strategies presented in the book, I learned how to plan my tasks, set priorities, and use my planner more effectively.”
Meet Mame
Highlight:
English Transcript:
“The First Year Seminar Textbook helped me connect what I learned in class to my everyday life, especially when it comes to time. Thanks to the strategies presented in the book, I learned how to plan my tasks, set priorities, and use my planner more effectively. By applying these methods, I have noticed that I manage my stress better and have found a healthier balance between my classes, personal responsibilities, and school commitments.”
