Freshman Interest Groups (FIGS) have become a popular model for academic and student affairs colleagues who are concerned that first-year students learn to reflect on life experiences and daily events as part of the learning process. A well-designed FIG model meets the academic, social and career concerns for first-year students by providing an immediate and inclusive support system in a campus living-and-learning environment. In addition, a well-designed FIG model includes a coordinated syllabus of classroom assignments, small group projects, and residence hall activities that foster an integrative experience in each of the linked courses in the FIG. The focus is holistic, weaving together a seamless array of shared classes in specific disciplinary subjects, residential programs and collaborative student group projects.