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Frequently Asked Questions
About FIGS
About Peer Instructors
About FIGS
How do I select a FIGS?
First-year students in the School of Arts & Sciences and the School of Environmental & Biological Sciences will be able to choose a FIGS when selecting other courses during your Academic Advising Day in May. If you do not have a FIGS on your Fall schedule, you may also sign up for an open FIGS in late August/early September during the Add/Drop period. But don't delay, FIGS fill up quickly.
Does participation in FIGS impact my grade point average?
No. FIGS are graded Pass/No Credit, which means you do NOT receive a letter grade. Therefore the grade that you receive is NOT factored into your grade point average.
Do I receive academic credit for FIGS?
Yes. All students who successfully participate in FIGS receive one-credit which counts towards graduation. If you do not come to class and complete the minimum assignments, you may receive no credit in the course.
What should I expect each week in FIGS?
 Your weekly FIGS class will be planned and facilitated by your Peer Instructor. FIGS are seminar courses which means they are focused mainly on discussion and participation. You will receive the most benefit from this class if you come each week and take advantage of learning from your peers. All FIGS will have the opportunity to go on an out of class excursion, hear from a Peer Panel, meet a Faculty Mentor, explore the various aspects of your interest area, and learn about the many services and resources available at Rutgers. You will have some short homework assignments and projects, but they are all designed to complement your learning, not interfere with your work for other courses.
Can I drop my FIGS?
Similar to other classes at Rutgers, you can withdraw from a FIGS class WITHOUT a "W" on your transcript during the academic Add/Drop period in late August/early September. After this period, you can still withdraw WITH a "W" on your transcript by the posted deadline found on the Registrar's website. For more information on dropping a FIGS class, contact your School's Academic Services office.
How many students are in a FIGS?
Each FIGS will have no more than 25 first-year students. Your seminar will likely be significantly smaller than most classes that you take in your first semester-- another great reason to take a FIGS! Class size depends on the number of students interested in a particular topic and scheduling.
Have more questions?
E-mail us at rulc@echo.rutgers.edu.
About Peer Instructors
What does a FIGS Peer Instructor do?
Each Peer Instructor (PI) is responsible for leading one section of a First-year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS). Each FIGS is scheduled for one (80-minute) class period per week for 10 weeks during the Fall semester only. The PI plans, develops and implements his/her own syllabus for the FIGS utilizing the 11 required FIGS elements (information literacy, faculty connection, peer panel, etc.). Peer Instructors also serve as mentors, aiding students in adjusting to college and understanding the many resources available at Rutgers.
What are the qualifications to become a FIGS Peer Instructor?
For a detailed list of qualifications visit the Peer Instructor page. The minimum requirements include: Rutgers University full-time undergraduate student, grade point average of 3.0 or higher, upper-class standing (junior or senior in Fall 2008—at least 54 credits completed), and participation in all training sessions and the Peer Instructor Education seminar in the Fall.
How can I learn more about becoming a Peer Instructor?
For more information, e-mail rulc@echo.rutgers.edu.
When can I start applying? When is the deadline? Where do I turn in my application?
Applications for Fall 2008 were due midnight on Monday, February 25, 2008. For more information about becoming a FIGS Peer Instructor, e-mail rulc@echo.rutgers.edu.
When will the interviews for the position held?
When completing the online application you will be asked to select a group interview date/time during the first weekend in March. Candidates who successfully complete the group interviews will be invited in for an individual interview during the first or second week of March. Announcement of final selections will be made by the beginning of April.
Who interviews me and what is the process like?
The group interviews will consist of several activities where your ability to work in a team and participation level will be evaluated by members of the selection committee. The selection committee will consist of professional staff and former Peer Instructors. The individual interview will last no longer than 30 minutes and will be with 1-2 members of the selection committee. The purpose of the interviews is not to intimidate you, but for us to get to know you better and for you to see if becoming a Peer Instructor is the right leadership position for you.
What if I can't make the interview days?
Missed interviews will be handled on a case-by-case basis. You are expected to be available for the interview process. If you are not available you may not be eligible to apply for the position.
What are you looking for in Peer Instructor candidates?
We look for candidates who exhibit strong leadership skills, are committed to their academics, and are excited to mentor first-year students. Candidates should be comfortable with public speaking, effective time managers, organized, and able to relate to people from diverse backgrounds.
When does the position start and what is the time commitment?
Becoming a Peer Instructor is a big commitment. Once chosen, Peer Instructors must attend training in May and August. During these training sessions you will be provided with the tools necessary to plan your syllabus and first few weeks of classes. Over the summer you will work on developing your syllabus. You should also plan to sign up for one of the sections of Peer Instructor Education, tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 9:50 AM – 11:10 AM on College Avenue. During the Fall semester, you should plan to attend Peer Instructor Education, completing assignments for this course; and teach your FIGS class, planning all lessons, speakers and materials each the week.
Have more questions?
E-mail us at rulc@echo.rutgers.edu.
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