First-year is a term that is commonly used to refer to someone in their first year of college or university. However, there are several synonyms for this term that can be used interchangeably. Freshman is a popular synonym that is often used to describe someone in their first-year of college. Another synonym that is frequently used is newcomer, which refers to someone who is new to a particular environment or situation. Other synonyms for first-year include rookie, novice, and neophyte. These terms all refer to someone who is new to a particular situation and may not have much experience. Regardless of the term used, first-year or its synonyms all refer to someone who is starting a new and exciting chapter in their life.