Weak connections between students and their academic and social environment can hinder commitment and lead to departure (Deil-Amen, 2011; Karp, Hughes, & O'Gara, 2010). Given their influence on college retention and completion, higher levels of academic and social integration should be a priority. Rather than focus on why students leave, it is important to understand what two-year institutions can or already do to improve transitions and persistence. Identifying equity gaps and focusing on improvement in pathways and programs of study is one way to improve student outcomes (Pickel & Bragg, 2015; Tinto, 2007). To this end, this brief explores the role of First-Year Experience (FYE) programs, with specific attention to student success courses or first-year seminars, as strategies that institutions can employ to better integrate students academically and socially, thus improving their transition to and achievement in postsecondary education.