<p>What is it really? Does it help you if you join? I've heard positive and negative reviews.</p>
<p>It’s a “class bundle” that groups you with other students that sign up for the same FIG so that you have some familiar faces around campus. IMO it’s more helpful in that you can get into classes most freshmen would otherwise not get into because they’re full. Many popular classes have quiz sections that are entirely reserved for FIG students, meaning no one else can sign up for those spots. Most FIGs are only 12 credits so if you aren’t coming into the UW with credits already then this can potentially put you behind in credits. Therefore, I think anyone taking a FIG should try to get a 3-5 credit class on top of their FIG. The 2 credit GEN ST class that comes along with the FIG is just busy work lead by a student IIRC.</p>
<p>I never did a FIG. I don’t think they’re worth it unless you absolutely cannot get into a certain class that you need to take autumn quarter. If you don’t take a FIG you have more flexibility with choosing your classes. Up to you.</p>
<p>^
For sure. I completely agree. I originally signed up for a FIG at my orientation last month, but I ended up switching out into 3 regular classes. The main reason why is because of the general studies class, which I have heard nothing good about at all. It’s just tedious busy work, as you said.</p>
<p>However, the one thing I might regret about not signing up for a FIG is that you pretty much get 30 automatic friends lol and it’s easier to make friendships, versus being in 3 individual classes with a different set of people for each of them. Just something the student adviser pointed out at my orientation.</p>
<p>^ ooh wow, lucky I checked ahead. I’ve already got college credits under my belt, and coming in-state, know I’ve got friends that’ll be there.</p>
<p>Also, is there an Honors Fig? And how many different ones are there?</p>
<p>There isn’t an Honors Fig this year, though there were one or two last year.</p>