If you ask a Track One student what program they’re in, they may tell you ask again in May.

Track One is a general first-year in Engineering, that was created for high school graduates who have not yet decided which Engineering discipline to pursue.

The program is carefully structured to give incoming students maximum exposure to the various Engineering disciplines before they choose one after completing their first year of studies. Track One students are encouraged to explore all the major areas of Engineering through a broad range of courses and seminars.

"Track One is a terrific opportunity for students to make a more informed decision," said Professor Susan McCahan, Chair of First Year. "They are in a better position to pick an Engineering program that fits their aspirations."

Since the program is new, Track One students did not have an established student club when they arrived. Instead of going their separate ways after classes, a number of intrepid students saw the opportunity to start a new club and bring the new community together: The Track One Committee.

The Committee, comprised of five Track One students, organized a number of activities for students in their program. When not cramming for exams, students participated in Frisbee matches, movie nights, a beach party and laser tag.

However, after the last Frisbee had been thrown and final exam handed in, Track One students still had a big decision to make: choose a discipline.

To help students make one of the biggest academic decisions they would ever make, the Faculty organized a number of luncheons and meetings designed to introduce students to the Engineering programs available here at U of T. One-on-one counselling was also available for students who still had questions when it came time to choose a discipline.

The combined support of their peers and the support systems put in place by the Faculty likely contributed to the impressive averages of Track One students, which are some of the highest in the Faculty.

Incoming Track One students will be able to build upon the success of the initial year of the program with the assistance of those who have already gone through it. Many of the Track One first year “alumni” will be invited to join a mentorship program that will see them assisting incoming students choose a discipline at the end of the year, and in turn develop their own leadership skills.

Applications for the 2008-2009 Track One class have increased by 50%, and the expected class size is 150 students.

"The first year of Track One was a wonderful success!" said Lesley Mak, First Year Experience Coordinator and Track One Liaison. "Track Ones took advantage of this opportunity to spend a year considering their options and questioning their personal goals while building an amazing community. Track One students learned early on in their univeristy careers that they have control of their own student experience."