First-Year Seminar University College

Catalog description

Facilitate student's adjustment to the high expectations, demanding workload, increased academic liberties, and other aspects of the transition to college life. PSU 008 First-Year Seminar University College (1-3) From a practical perspective this course will provide an advanced introduction to university life at Penn State, highlighting the many resources available to help students succeed. Topics covered will include the challenges of balancing life and school, academic success strategies, dealing with financial aid, choosing a major, as well as understanding academic discourse and university policy and procedure. In addition, we will read and discuss some of the latest research on the experiences of first year college students. We will think about the particular challenges first year students face, and consider what steps could be taken to address those challenges at the level of university and governmental policy. This is a student-led, discussion-oriented course where we talk about a range of issues in a small, informal setting, and our goal will be to create a collaborative environment in which everyone is comfortable participating. In addition to discussions, we will explore university resources and the pragmatic issues of college through lectures, guest speakers, and hands-on practice.