The mission of INSIGHTS, University of the Cumberlands' freshman orientation program, is to ease the new student's transition into college life. This transition begins at summer orientation when students meet their INSIGHTS instructors and fellow group members. Each class of approximately twenty students is led by two upperclassmen and one faculty or staff volunteer, who continues to serve as the students' academic advisor during the first year.

By the time Welcome Week begins in late August, new students are acquainted with their INSIGHTS leaders and peers and, through a combination of social activities and serious discussions, they together begin addressing the issues that most concern freshmen: meeting new people, coping with freedom and responsibility, succeeding academically, and balancing study with sports and other activities. Once the semester has begun, INSIGHTS classes meet once weekly until midterm, but even after regular sessions end, students are encouraged to contact any of their group leaders whenever they need help.

The success of the INSIGHTS program has gained national attention. In 1998, co-directors Linda Carter and Kathy Fish were named Outstanding Freshman Advocates by the University of South Carolina National Resource Center for Freshman Year Experience and Students in Transition.