Impact and Insights from the First Cougar FAST Way Program

1. A Strong Start for Student Success

Drawing on the successful outcomes of the first two cohorts, the FAST (Focus, Accelerate, Succeed, Transfer) Way Program showed promising results. More than 80% of students were engaged and successful, with a 100% completion and success rate in ENGL C1000. By allowing students to focus on just two courses at a time, the program helped reduce overwhelm, build confidence, and set students up for early academic wins in their first semester.

2. Support That Truly Meets Students Where They Are

A big part of FAST Way’s success came from the relationships and support built into the program. Weekly support hours, individualized tutoring, and proactive outreach from a dedicated Support Coordinator ensured students never felt like they were navigating college alone. Experiences like the UCLA campus field trip also played an important role, helping students envision their transfer goals while strengthening their connection to the campus and to one another.

3. Meaningful Learning Through Integrated PBL—with Room to Grow

The integrated project-based learning (PBL) approach between ENGL C1000 and COMM C1000 gave students the chance to see how their skills connect across courses and real-life contexts. As we look ahead to Fall 2026, the addition of a new athletic cohort offers an exciting opportunity to bring even more voices, perspectives, and learning experiences into the FAST Way community while continuing to expand curriculum diversity.