Once a week from August through mid-December, 10 first-year students and a faculty leader sit down with an essay or short story they’ve all read. Prompted by a question from the leader and using basic rules of discussion, they will explore, argue and learn what matters most about the text. And they’ll be using -- and developing -- skills needed for success in college and in life: listening, attentiveness, logic, the ability to form consensus. It’s exciting because it’s about real discovery. It’s what college is about.

It's Tough...

No matter where you go to college, the first semester is tough. More often than not the transition to college life lasts months, not days. Learning the campus, making good academic choices, thinking seriously about your future, adjusting to life on your own — it’s a lot to ask. That’s why your Introduction to Inquiry leader will also be your academic adviser. He or she is someone who understands the challenges of being new to college, who knows what questions to ask, and how to listen. You’ll work with her or him until you declare a major.