Spring Break
Incoming freshman face new academic requirements
Natalie Jurgen
Issue date: 8/14/08 Section: News
Incoming freshman this fall semester have two new requirements before they even step foot inside a classroom.
For the first time, first semester freshman will be required to complete an online alcohol education program and participate in ECU Reads- ECU's inaugural summer reading program for freshman.
During 2008 freshman orientation, students were given a free copy of the book My Freshman Year: What a Professor Learned by Becoming a Student by Dr. Cathy Small, written under the pseudonym Rebekah Nathan.
"The program was designed to develop a common experience for the entering freshman class," said Carol Woodruff, director of Co-Curricular Programs and Cultural Outreach and ECU Reads committee member.
"The book will be a basis for both academic and intellectual conversation and will allow students to engage in conversations with faculty. The requirement also sends a strong signal that these students are entering an academic community that places a high value on reading."
Dr. Cathy Small, an anthropology professor, used her anthropological training to immerse herself in the life of a college student.
Small took a leave of absence, assumed a new name, enrolled at a university and lived for a year as a freshman student. Through interviews and direct observation and experience, Small developed a clear understanding of the pressures and realities of a college student.
"Among the many reasons the book was selected was that it is accessible, contemporary and relevant to students,' said Dr. Michael Bassman, director of the ECU Honors Program and committee chair.
On August 23 from 4-5 p.m. students will have an opportunity to participate in one of 15-25 discussion groups located throughout campus led by faculty and student affairs staff.
Also, On August 24 at 2 p.m. in Hendrix Theatre, Dr. Cathy Small will be speaking to ECU students and staff and will also lead a question and answer session. Following Small's presentation will be a book signing and an ice cream reception in the brickyard for all attendees.
For the first time, first semester freshman will be required to complete an online alcohol education program and participate in ECU Reads- ECU's inaugural summer reading program for freshman.
During 2008 freshman orientation, students were given a free copy of the book My Freshman Year: What a Professor Learned by Becoming a Student by Dr. Cathy Small, written under the pseudonym Rebekah Nathan.
"The program was designed to develop a common experience for the entering freshman class," said Carol Woodruff, director of Co-Curricular Programs and Cultural Outreach and ECU Reads committee member.
"The book will be a basis for both academic and intellectual conversation and will allow students to engage in conversations with faculty. The requirement also sends a strong signal that these students are entering an academic community that places a high value on reading."
Dr. Cathy Small, an anthropology professor, used her anthropological training to immerse herself in the life of a college student.
Small took a leave of absence, assumed a new name, enrolled at a university and lived for a year as a freshman student. Through interviews and direct observation and experience, Small developed a clear understanding of the pressures and realities of a college student.
"Among the many reasons the book was selected was that it is accessible, contemporary and relevant to students,' said Dr. Michael Bassman, director of the ECU Honors Program and committee chair.
On August 23 from 4-5 p.m. students will have an opportunity to participate in one of 15-25 discussion groups located throughout campus led by faculty and student affairs staff.
Also, On August 24 at 2 p.m. in Hendrix Theatre, Dr. Cathy Small will be speaking to ECU students and staff and will also lead a question and answer session. Following Small's presentation will be a book signing and an ice cream reception in the brickyard for all attendees.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
TJ Hooker
posted 8/20/08 @ 1:13 PM EST
Where did Dr. Small go "under cover" at? Some place where everybody is blin? Because she sure could not blend in well with the Freshmen around here.
LOL
posted 8/24/08 @ 4:39 AM EST
Now if they'd just raise the minimum SAT requirement at least a few hundred points or so, we'd be all set.
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