The Freshmen College Learning Experience

Many of you will be doing some college visiting this fall and I wanted to say a few words about one of the most important aspects of investigating a college during your trip  --  The Learning Experience for Freshmen.

It's easy to get caught up by the surface appearances when visiting a college, and it is very true that the admission office at every college and university uses expert "marketing strategies" when setting up their college tours. You might be "sold" on every college you visit, so it's important to go into this process with a specific perspective.  

Imagine that you're a freshman about to move into your dorm.  What would provide you with the best chance of success this year and what do you need to be in place to make a successful transition to your college experience?

There are some great strategies used by colleges and universities who have the highest retention rates for Freshman.Find out if the colleges you're visiting help freshmen to adjust and succeed by asking these questions:

  1.  Does this school have a 'freshman experience," a seminar that everyone takes, or an intensive first-year advising program?

 2.  What percent of faculty teach freshmen?

 3.  What percent of classes are taught by teaching assistants?

4.  What is the average size of freshmen classes? or What are your largest freshmen classes?

5.  What percentage of freshmen get the courses they want the most?

6.  Are freshmen required to take a writing course?

7.  Do the RAs (Residence Assistants) run special programs for freshmen to help with dorm and campus adjustment?  Are they available for social concerns?

You've invested alot to get to this point, don't you want to make sure the college you choose is willing to invest in you?