At the core of Bentley’s First Year Experience is the Falcon Discovery Seminar (FDS). The Seminar is designed to inspire a commitment to lifelong learning, introduce essential academic skills, and create a strong sense of belonging among first year students.
setting students up for success
What Students Say
The Falcon Discovery Seminar (FDS) fosters connection, confidence, and academic growth, beginning in a students’ very first semester. With 93% of first-year students returning for their second year, the early connections made through FDS set students up for academic and career success.
97%
felt valued by their instructor
Survey of FDS Students
77%
felt connected or very connected to Bentley by semester’s end
Survey of FDS Students
97%
reported feeling comfortable using AI responsibly and productively in their coursework
Survey of FDS Students
More First Year Highlights

Being a Peer Leader in the FDS Program is one of my most treasured college experiences. It helped me grow as a leader, strengthen key skills, and make meaningful connections while supporting new students.
Andre Noonan
Meet the Team

Chris Beneke, Associate Dean, First Year Experience and the Bentley Core

Jamie Bang, Associate Director, Student Success Programs

Jane De León Griffin, Associate Provost for Student Success
