Introducing the Cougar FAST Way Program

We are excited to launch the FAST (Focus, Accelerate, Succeed, Transfer) Way Program in Fall 2025! This program empowers first-semester Cuesta EOPS and Promise students to achieve their personal and academic goals. It will feature a structured and accelerated learning model through two student cohorts, each participating in four general education courses delivered in a hybrid format. The program will also include strong tutoring support and peer mentorship. Below is an overview of the program's structure:

Key Principles of the FAST Way Learning Approach

• Focus: The semester is divided into two segments, each lasting 8 weeks. This structure allows students to focus on just two courses at a time, rather than juggling four courses simultaneously.

• Accelerate: Courses are delivered in an accelerated format, which helps keep students engaged and enhances their learning experience. This approach incorporates a hybrid model that includes structured support.

• Succeed: Continuous evaluations will monitor students' academic progress and provide immediate feedback, ensuring that they receive timely assistance to succeed.

• Transfer: Students will develop a transfer plan to help them achieve their university transfer goals on schedule.

  
  

General Education Courses and Faculty

• ENGL C1000 (formerly known as ENGL 201A): English Composition with Dr. Amelia Marini

• COMM C1000 (formerly known as COMM 201): Public Address with Dr. John Patrick

• STAT C1000 (formerly known as Math 247): Intro to Statistics with Prof. Anne Woods

• MUS 236: World Music Appreciation with Prof. Dylan Johnson

  
  

Student Cohorts

• Cohort A: Up to 28 students will start with ENGL C1000 and COMM C1000 for the first 8 weeks. After that, they will swap classes with Cohort B for the second 8 weeks.

• Cohort B: Up to 28 students will begin with STAT C1000 and MUS 236 during the first 8 weeks. After that, they will swap classes with Cohort A for the following 8 weeks.

Academic and Individual Support

• Personalized Tutoring: Receive individual support tailored to meet each participant's unique learning preferences and needs.

• Academic Counseling: Explore academic majors and career paths with guidance from academic and career advisors.

• Workshops and Seminars: Participate in interactive workshops designed to enhance students' skills and enrich their experiences in their first year.

  
  

Excursion and Social Development

In the FAST Way cohort, students will be encouraged to explore campus resources, engage with current students, and learn about various academic programs. During the break between two 8-week course sessions, a field trip to a University of California (UC) campus will be organized.

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