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FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCEDirector: Keri L. Rogers, Ph.D. Sam Houston State University is dedicated to helping first-year students make the transition to university life. The University encourages students to be active in and out of the classroom in order to enjoy the benefits of what SHSU has to offer. Students taking advantage of the First-Year Experience program enhance their educational experience while enjoying the opportunity to build a solid foundation of skills needed for success. Sam Houston State University’s faculty, staff and administrators truly value students and want each of them to be successful. The University has developed a comprehensive, coordinated approach toward the first-year experience including a freshman seminar, learning communities, new student orientation, advising, newsletters, New Student Convocation, and a comprehensive listing of academic support services offered for students at SHSU. SAM 136, Introduction to Collegiate Studies, is a three-hour, credit, elective course for freshmen. Class size is limited to approximately 25 students. Students read and write extensively on experiences and challenges that are common among first-year students. This seminar is designed to provide students with essential strategies and information to enhance the likelihood of their academic and social success. Learning communities provide beginning freshmen the opportunity to take several classes with the same group of students. The learning communities are designed to foster the intellectual and social development of students through increased interaction with fellow students, faculty and staff. The Bearkat Learning Community provides beginning freshman students the opportunity to take classes with other students who live in the same residence hall. This group of students also has a planned program of activities designed to enhance academics as well as provide a positive social atmosphere. The Freshman Learning Community (FLC) offers first-year freshmen who may or may not live in a residence hall a unique opportunity to take classes with the same group of students, but not live with them in a common residence hall. For further information call (936)294-3422; e-mail fye@shsu.edu; or visit http://www.shsu.edu/fye. First-Year Experience Course DescriptionSAM 136 Introduction to Collegiate Studies. SAM 136 is a seminar designed to enhance the first-year experience for beginning college students and to increase student success in college. The varied content of the course will facilitate a smoother transition into the college culture. Content areas include: goal setting and time management skills, writing skills, test preparation and taking skills, critical thinking skills, career exploration, locating and utilizing campus resources, diversity awareness, wellness strategies, money management, and leadership/civic service awareness. Writing Enhanced. Credit 3. |