Iowa re-thinks the freshman experience

<p>I’m pretty sure this is the direction for future classes, but that it does not apply to the Class of 2014, since the LLC’s, orientation and move-in days, etc. are all already scheduled. Details on the proposals are available via a Google search. </p>

<p>There is a college transitions course that I think is available for everyone, although it looks like they are trying to expand it for future years. The first-year seminars that area already in place also look really interesting. It is probably too late to expand orientation and welcome-week for this year. The 4 year graduation plan looks good. Finally, I think the courses-in-common are a good idea if there is one that fits for one’s interests and schedule. </p>

<p>I think that it a very good sign that Iowa is focusing a lot of attention on the freshman experience, retention, etc. The current administration seems to be pretty good about id’ing issues, moving quickly to gather input and then implement actions. But it does take some time to implement change on a campus the size of Iowa.</p>