First-Year Courses & Learning Communities
The Office of First-Year Courses & Learning Communities administers Student Success Seminars for all first-year students. Student Success Seminars include content about campus resources, study skills, critical thinking, and diversity, helping students find ways to get connected to the university during the transition to college. Eastern Kentucky University offers several variations of the seminar, depending upon a student's major or special interests.
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Exploratory students (students who have not declared a major) enroll in GSD 101, a 3-hour course that incorporates a major and career exploration unit developed in coordination with the Center for Career and Co-op.
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Sections of GSD 101 are also offered for special populations (NOVA, Student Athletes, Latino Bridge Program).
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Students who enter the University with a declared major must also enroll in GSD 101.
First-Year Courses is also home to GSD 101 Learning Communities. Eligible students are pre-enrolled in learning communities on an as-available basis. In a learning community, students take two classes with the same group of students and have increased opportunities to interact with instructors, classmates, and peer mentors outside of class.
Taking part in a learning community provides the following benefits:
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Attending two classes with the same group of students
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Securing a seat in high demand classes
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Geting involved in campus life
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Attending specially-designed out-of-class programs
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Learning about helpful resources available at EKU
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Improving chances of academic success
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Getting to know instructors and classmates better
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Creating lasting friendships
Learning Communities give first-year students the opportunity to learn the ropes at EKU while making important social and academic connections.
