Available Learning Communities
There are more than 50 learning communities (LCs) available for you to explore. LCs are groups of 20-25 students who take classes together focused on a specific theme, academic area, or interest.
Learning Communities
To join a Learning Community, talk with your academic advisor during your New Roo Advising appointment. For select communities, you can reserve your spot prior to meeting with your advisor by completing the LC interest form below.
Learning Community interest form
FAQs
- Learning Communities have limited spots and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
- To be eligible, you must have confirmed your intent to enroll at UA.
- Individual communities may have additional eligibility criteria identified within their descriptions listed below.
- Some communities use specific academic criteria (i.e. placement tests) to place students into certain courses.
- You can reserve your spot for select LCs prior to meeting with your advisor by completing the LC interest form above.
Interdisciplinary:
The Adult Focus Learning Community is designed for students 23 years old or older and provides support services for individuals who may assume multiple life roles such as a parent, spouse/partner, employee, caregiver, etc.
Department/College:
- Adult Focus
Community opportunities:
- Connect with our adult learners
- Utilize all of UAs support services and academic resources
Who’s eligible?
- Any student, regardless of age, whose primary life roles and responsibilities exist independent of the University and take precedence over the role of student in times of crisis or stress is considered to be an adult student.
How to apply?
- Complete the survey interest form sent to you from New Student Orientation.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
The Akron Rises Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff and fellow students early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide support for Akron Rises students and assist in getting them connected to The University of Akron community. Students may have the opportunity (based on testing and course availability) to enroll in a Basic Math or Basic Writing course with their peers from Akron Experience.
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising & Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
- Social events and networking opportunities
- First-Year Seminar taught by your Retention Coordinator
Who’s eligible / How to apply?
- Students who are admitted through the Akron Rises Program.
Possible courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Basic Math (4 load hours)
- Basic Writing (4 load hours)
- Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
The Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS) Collegiate Success Learning Community is for students who want an opportunity to participate in a retention-based community and are a member of Choose Ohio First Summer Bridge. Each student is assigned a peer mentor and a professional staff coordinator. The community is focused on helping incoming students develop and grow into scholars by helping them enhance their academic skills and facilitating engagement with the university community.
Department/College:
- Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS)
Community opportunities:
- Complete an Individual Success Plan with a retention coordinator
- Meet with a peer mentor weekly
- Attend various social and cultural events
- Scheduled academic progress checks to support students’ performance in the classroom
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are selected as participants in the Collegiate Success program. Further information can be found here and you can contact OARS@uakron.edu for further information.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Courses included (spring semester)
- MUSIC: 201 Exploring Music: Bach to Rock
The Emerging Leaders Program creates an opportunity for first-year students to become actively engaged in the campus community through leadership development, civic engagement and self-discovery. It is through academic achievement, mentoring and co-curricular involvement that students experience a holistic approach to college life and later as civic leaders in society.
Department/College:
- Department of Residence Life and Housing
Community opportunities:
- Make new friends in a unique Learning Community
- Award-winning leadership training
- Membership in America's No. 1 program board (RHPB)
- Work with great entertainers
- Arrive to school early
- Be a part of UA from the start
Who’s eligible?
- Students of any major can apply. Students are selected through an application process by the Department of Residence Life and Housing. As a part of the community experience, students are required to reside on campus in the designated residence hall spaces reserved for the Emerging Leaders Program.
How to apply?
- For more information and details on how to apply, please click here to visit housing’s website.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Leadership Principles & Instruction (2 credits)
EXPLORE your career and major options! In our EXPLORE Learning Communities you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself, your interests, skills, and values and how they impact your career. You will also connect with current students to learn about campus resources and fun things to do at UA!
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising and Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Explore majors and career pathways
- Learn about career readiness and college success
- Connect with student peer mentors
- Timely transition into degree-granting college
Who’s eligible?
- Students exploring and deciding between 2 or more majors.
How to apply?
- Exploratory students will be placed into one of three EXPLORE Learning Community experiences by their academic advisor during their assigned New Roo Advising appointment.
Courses included (fall semester)
EXPLORE #1
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
EXPLORE #2
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Introduction to Public Speaking (3 credits)
EXPLORE #3
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Introduction to Ethics (3 credits)
Step into the FreshStart Learning Community, a specialized initiative by the Office of Multicultural Development tailored for all college freshmen, with a particular focus on those who didn't achieve the high school GPA they aspired to. Crafted to build a robust foundation for academic success, FreshStart embraces a holistic approach to student development. Through mentorship, collaborative learning, and a commitment to personal growth, FreshStart aims to empower students for a successful transition into their college journey. Join us at FreshStart, where we create a path for a vibrant, culturally rich, and thriving academic experience anchored in a commitment to inclusive excellence through a variety of perspectives.
Department/College:
- Office of Multicultural Development
Community Opportunities:
- Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
- Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
- Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
- Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
- Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with FreshStart, easing the financial aspects of your college experience
Who’s eligible?
- FreshStart invites students with any high school GPA, emphasizing a commitment to a solid beginning in college. Applicants must demonstrate a serious dedication to their FreshStart journey. Open to individuals from all majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Academic Support (weekly)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Academic Support (weekly)
The I PROMISE Zips Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for I PROMISE students and assist in getting students connected to The University of Akron community. In the spring, the focus shifts to building a legacy at UA and in the community.
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising and Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
- Participate in civic engagement opportunities designed to cultivate young emerging leaders
- Built in study table support
- Social events and networking opportunities
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are I PROMISE scholarship recipients from the I PROMISE School.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
- Academic Support (Weekly)
- Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials
Courses included (spring semester)
- Special Topic: Building Your Legacy through Career and Leadership (2 credits)
- Academic Support (Weekly)
- Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials
Explore your career and major options! In our Learning Community you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself, your interests, skills, and values and how they impact your career. You will also connect with current students to learn about campus resources and fun things to do at UA!
Department/College:
- Military Services Center, Office of Student Affairs
Community opportunities:
- Practice hands on in class articulating military experience to civilian life with Ohio Means Jobs military experts – complete resumes and attend Veterans Career Fair.
- Practice teamwork and communication skills, and develop reflective habits through group projects. This provides a comfort zone for you to ease in to university life and assimilate with traditional students.
- One-on-one interactions during class time with representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Service Commission to help you attain all the resources you have earned.
- Help during class time with the Military Services Center to make sure each term your GI Bill, Guard Scholarship and other benefits are processed timely.
Who’s eligible?
- Anyone who has served or is serving in the military and their dependents – Ohio National Guard, Reservists, Active Duty, Prior Active Duty, Post 9/11, Vocational Rehabilitation Recipients, Dependents of current military service members, MIA, KIA or disabled.
How to apply?
- Complete the survey interest form sent to you from New Student Orientation.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
This community is perfect for first-year college students who are passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) and are recipients of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship. It provides a lively environment where you can connect with like-minded peers, collaborate, explore, and grow together in your STEM interests. You'll have access to opportunities for personal and professional development. From mentorship programs with experienced STEM professionals to internships and career pathways, the program provides you with the necessary tools and resources for collegiate success.
Department/College:
- Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS)
Community opportunities:
- Complete an Individual Success Plan with a retention coordinator
- Meet with a peer mentor weekly
- Attend various social and cultural events
- Scheduled academic progress checks to support students’ performance in the classroom
- For students residing on campus, students will live together in the OARS Living-Learning Community
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are selected as participants in the Choose Ohio First program. Further information can be found here and you can contact OARS@uakron.edu for further information.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
The PASSAGE Learning Community is crafted to be an inviting space where individuals from all backgrounds unite in a spirit of fellowship, forming a close and supportive network. Emphasizing a fusion of varied perspectives and experiences, this learning community is dedicated to creating an environment that welcomes participants from all walks of life. It encourages a deep sense of connection and camaraderie rooted in diversity of thought. Following the principles of PASSAGE (Promoting Awareness, Social Sensitivity, and Genuine Empathy), the community is committed to shared experiences, collaborative learning, and mutual support. It aims to blend individuals with a variety of viewpoints into a cohesive fellowship, fostering a rich learning environment that appreciates the uniqueness of each participant while embracing inclusive excellence.
Department/College:
- Office of Multicultural Development
Community opportunities:
- Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
- Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
- Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
- Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
- Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with PASSAGE, easing the financial aspects of your college experience
Who’s eligible?
- PASSAGE invites students with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.50 or higher, offering an opportunity for those seeking a strong start in college. Open to individuals from all majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form .
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Academic Support (weekly)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Leadership course
- Academic Support (weekly)
The REALity Learning Community combines pop culture influences to current leadership and engagement practices. This learning community is for the film buffs and binge watchers who want to explore and connect what they watch to their new start at the University of Akron.
Department/College:
- Department of Student Life
Community opportunities:
- Strategize academic and personal success
- Engage in the on and off campus community
- Connect with campus resources
- Cultivate leadership and your professional profile
Who’s eligible?
- Students of any major, any residential status (commuter or campus housing), genuinely interested in interacting with campus and community as well as establishing lifelong learning/leadership tools
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Join the Transfer Experience Learning Community and connect with your fellow UA transfer students on all that UA has to offer. Learn more about student resources, and activities that you can participate in along with events specially designed for transfer students.
Department/College:
- Transfer Services Center
Community opportunities:
- National Transfer Student Week Events and Programming.
- Opportunities to thrive in and out of the classroom in a learning environment that becomes home.
Who’s eligible?
- New Transfer Students enrolling at UA
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar with an embedded transfer student experience (2 credits)
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences:
For Pre-Med/Pre-Health students who want to make an impact in the lives of individuals and the communities they serve, while completing degree requirements.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow pre-med students
- Form study groups
- Learn about different areas of medicine/healthcare from professionals in the field
Who’s eligible?
- Biology, Biomedical, and other majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Sociology (3 credits)
- Biomedical Ethics (3 credits)
The Criminal Justice Learning Communities are focused towards bringing together students from both the Criminology & Criminal Justice and Criminal Intelligence Analysis degree programs and providing them with the opportunity to meet and learn from professionals in the field. The Learning Community courses will include an introductory course, along with a math course.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow Criminal Justice/Criminal Intelligence Analysis students
- Learn from professionals in the field
Who’s eligible?
- Criminal Justice majors
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
CRJU #1
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
- Statistics for Everyday Life (4 credits)
CRJU #2
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
- Basic Math I (4 load hours)
Students in these learning communities will be able to connect their peers, easily form study groups, and build a lasting community of peers.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow Education majors
- Learn about undergraduate opportunities within The LeBron James Family Foundation School of Education
Who’s eligible?
- Education majors
Courses included (fall semester)
Community #1: Primary Teacher Inclusive Program (age 3 to grade 5)
- US History to 1877 (3 credits)
- Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
Community #2: All other Education majors
- English Composition I (3 credits)
- Introduction to Public Speaking (3 credits)
The Fine Arts Learning Community is focused towards Myers School of Art students who want to build a strong foundation for the skills and abilities to be successful in the professional arts. The community involves foundational Art courses that are required first semester courses. The Fine Arts Learning Community provides connection to mentorship and support for first semester Arts students to build their skill sets and become active members of the Myers School of Art community.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow art students
- Form study groups
- Participate in Myers School of Art organizations
Who’s eligible?
- Art majors
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Arts Orientation
- Foundation Drawing I (3 credits)
- Foundation 2D Design (3 credits)
The Pre-Law Learning Community is focused towards Political Science, Criminal Justice, Philosophy, and History students who are serious about preparing for law school. The learning community will provide networking opportunities with individuals from UA's School of Law and current practitioners and UA Alums.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow pre-law students
- Form study groups
- Learn about different areas of law from professionals in the field
- Learn about the law school application process and the 3+3 programs
Who’s eligible?
- Political Science, Philosophy, History, and Criminal Justice majors
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Philosophy (3 credits)
The Pre-Med Learning Community is focused towards Biology, Biomedical Science, or Biochemistry students who are serious about preparing for medical school. The community involves linked courses in Biology and Chemistry that are required first semester courses, and a course that introduces students to healthcare principles and practices. Within the healthcare course provides exposure to physicians and health care professionals from a variety of areas as well as practical information about the traditional and partnership pathways to medical school.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow pre-med students
- Form study groups
- Learn about different areas of medicine/healthcare from professionals in the field
- Learn about the medical school application process/partnership programs
Who’s eligible?
- Direct Admit Biology, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry majors, and other majors with at least pre-calculus placement.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form .
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Health-Care Delivery Systems (1 credit)
- Principles of Biology (4 credits)
- Principles of Biology Lab
- Principles of Chemistry (3 credits)
- Principles of Chemistry Lab (1 credit)
The Psychology learning community is focused on bringing psychology majors together to explore their career options and provide support for a pivotal course, Statistics for Everyday Life, which will serve as a foundation for later courses in their major. Additionally, it will connect students with resources and opportunities specific to the Psychology major.
Department/College:
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Meet fellow Psychology majors and learn about undergrad and career opportunities.
Who’s eligible?
- Psychology majors
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Career Issues in Psychology (1 credit)
- Statistics for Everyday Life (4 credits)
College of Business:
UA faculty member Dr. Shanon Donnelly (Associate Professor of Instruction, Geoscience) used CEC funds to purchase a specialized drone to aid his Geology and Environmental Science Service-Learning students in collaborating with the Summit Metro Parks to map invasive vegetation in a remote area of wetlands in Long Lake typically inaccessible to humans. Students learned in the field about phragmites australis from their SMP collaborators (Rob Curtis and Ramsey Langford) and presented their final project blog and maps during an end of the semester presentation day that SMP can use in the future to manage invasive plants.
This Learning Community is open to first-year marketing and sales majors or students interested in pursuing a career in marketing or sales. The group will explore opportunities to connect with other students in those major, as well as get a head start in creating a network with alumni and companies in Northeast Ohio.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Have access to join UA's American Marketing Association, Fisher Sales Society, and other student groups that focus on these areas
- Gain valuable information about the future of Marketing and Sales, not only from a trends perspective, but also from a career perspective
- Engage with community partners in experiential learning projects and company tours
Who’s eligible?
- Any incoming, first-year Marketing and/or Sales majors in the College of Business
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
Experience Business in an immersive way this fall by joining our new Business Living Learning Community! Your involvement will open pathways of opportunity as you enjoy community amenities and connect with other business majors. This unique experience will integrate academic, social, and career development to support students in making a smooth, successful transition to college life at The University of Akron. Students will live as "neighbors" to one another in our newest campus residence hall, take the Business Success Seminar (BUSN110) course together, and engage in various events designed to connect students to their business education, the corporate world, and many of its key players.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Learn time management & study skills that will be valuable for first -year business majors adjusting to college life.
- Build relationships with students while living in residence hall and taking Business Success Seminar (BUSN:110) as community.
- Connect with business faculty and staff at various University of Akron and College of Business events.
Who’s eligible?
- Any Incoming, first-year College of Business student.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
Understanding individual strengths and building relationships with others enhances one’s ability for a successful future career in business. The College of Business Leadership Learning Community will provide students with leadership concepts surrounding purpose, ethics, and empowerment in a group-curricular setting while having out-of-class experiences to engage and apply their learning. Students will learn, first-hand, what it means to be an effective leader.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Access to join the Leadership Designation Program prior to other UA students
- Interactive class activities that are focused on leadership and enhancing personal skills
- Network with guest speakers who are business leaders and innovators
- Sample class topics: Intro to leadership, making decisions, lessons from idols, leading and following
Who’s eligible?
- Any Incoming, first-year College of Business student.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (Fall Semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
Have you ever wondered what it takes to own and operate your own business? This Learning Community will help any incoming business student who has the passion and drive to create new business opportunities in an ever-changing environment.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Network with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs
- Engage with community partners (including Bounce Innovation Hub)
- Gain valuable tools into the creation and implementation of owning your own business
- Topics will include: thinking like an entrepreneur, the early steps in business planning, and strategies every new entrepreneur should keep in mind.
Who’s eligible?
- Any incoming, first-year College of Business student.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form .
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
This Learning Community is open to first-year sport business and sport analytics majors or students interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry. This group will explore opportunities to connect with other students in those majors, as well as get a head start in creating a network with alumni and sport industry professionals in Northeast Ohio.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Have access to join UA’s student organization SABA (Sport Analytics and Business Association)
- Gain valuable information about the sport industry and how to prepare yourself for future career opportunities
- Connect with Sport Analytics and Sport Business faculty, students and industry professionals to start growing your network and build relationships
Who’s eligible?
- For an incoming, first-year Sport Business and/or Sports Analytics majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form .
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
This Learning Community is designed to provide a supportive environment for any woman student seeking a career in business or another related field. Topics will incorporate the impacts and challenges women face in the workplace, and strategies for leveraging strengths to achieve success.
Department/College:
- College of Business
Community opportunities:
- Make connections with local women industry leaders from UA College of Business Advisory Boards and alumni network
- Hear from special guest speakers on gender-related issues in the workplace
- Includes membership in the Women in Business student organization
- Sample class topics: Establishing a workplace presence, giving and receiving constructive feedback, navigating workplace bias, developing emotional intelligence, self-awareness
Who’s eligible?
- Any incoming, first-year College of Business woman
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Courses included (Fall semester)
- Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)
College of Engineering and Polymer Science:
Dr. Dani Jauk-Ajamie, Assistant Professor for Sociology and Criminal Justice, led a Community Engaged Course for two semesters, first with an Introduction to Criminal Justice course (YEAR) , and then with Introduction to Corrections. Both classes pen-paled with incarcerated individuals over the course of the semester so that they could learn more about the criminal justice system. Community Engaged Course funds from EX[L] supported the payment of a community partner that worked to match students to their pen pals, forward the letters, and teach the students how to properly write letters to their pen-pals.
Students were matched with individuals from anywhere in the United States and were given the option of whether or not they would remain anonymous. and students were required to send at least four letters throughout the semester, with the goal being to learn about the criminal justice system from an inside perspective. Incarcerated individuals shared their experience as well as their aspirations. Students were also able to share bits about themselves as well. Students were placed in reflection groups so that they could discuss their experience throughout the semester. This gave them an opportunity to address any questions or concerns.
Students on the project indicated that this project pushed them outside of their comfort zone and helped them change their mindset and “see the human aspect” of the prisoners. One past student wrote about their experience, sharing:
“My pen-pal was able to teach me multiple things about the prison system and just life in general. We share many interests in sports, music, TV shows, life values, and many more. Just recently, he got me hooked on a show called "All American" on Netflix. The biggest thing I learned from this project was not to judge a book by its cover. I first thought that he would try and ask me for money and that he was this hardcore criminal we think of when we hear the word "criminal" or "prisoner", but he was quite the opposite of those stereotypes. In fact, he was one of the most genuine, smart, caring, and soft-spoken people I have ever met. He is just like me. He just happened to make a mistake that cost him his life and freedom. Inmates are just like you and me. They have families that love them, hopes and dreams, favorite shows, music, hobbies, and foods. They just happened to make a bigger mistake and have had to face the consequences.”
This teaching project was highlighted in the spring 2021 edition of The Buchtelite and was awarded a Spirit of Experiential Learning Award (p. 6) at the 2021 EX[L] Experiential Learning Awards Ceremony.
Heather Braun – she did a film screening with Pressure Life Productions of the film “Doubled Up” and it was in an English Comp class
This Engineering Learning Community provides aspiring engineering students of all disciplines the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for those engineering students who have placed into Algebra for Calculus. Students will participate in an academic support program built into their math course.
Department/College:
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Community Opportunities:
- Faculty and staff connection with the college
- Get to know more about the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
- Built in study table support for math
Who’s eligible?
- Students pursing any Engineering major and who have placed into Algebra for Calculus.
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
-
Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
-
Algebra for Calculus (4 credits)
-
Academic Support (Weekly)
This Engineering Learning Community provides aspiring engineering students of all disciplines the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for those engineering students who have placed into Pre-Calculus. Students will participate in an academic support program built into their math course.
Department/College:
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Community Opportunities:
- Faculty and staff connection with the college
- Get to know more about the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
- Built in study table support for math
Who’s eligible?
- Students pursing any Engineering major and who have placed into Pre-Calculus.
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
-
Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
-
Pre-Calculus Math (4 credits)
-
Academic Support (Weekly)
This Learning Community is designed for students who are interested in exploring the different majors within the College of Engineering and Polymer Science. Learn about the different pathways such as Engineering, Engineering Technology and Computing. Students will also participate in college-based activities and events along with opportunities to connect with faculty, staff, and fellow peers in their First-Year Seminar Course.
Department/College:
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Community opportunities:
- Develop faculty and staff connections with the college
- Learn from academic advisors about curriculum and the various CEPS majors
- Interact with current students
- Participate in career coaching
Who’s eligible?
- Students in the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
- Students placed in Algebra for Calculus or lower
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
For students who have accepted the Sherwin-Williams Scholarship, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams Company, this learning community is committed to providing students with an exceptional learning environment and comprehensive resources that will empower them to excel in chemical engineering, polymer science and polymer engineering, computer engineering, computer information systems, computer science. After accepting invitations to participate in this learning community, students will be provided academic support services by the College of Engineering and Polymer Science and Sherwin-Williams Company. Through this collaboration, we will foster academic excellence, innovation, and professional growth, ultimately positioning our students and Sherwin-Williams for continued success in the rapidly evolving landscape of engineering and computing industries.
Department/College:
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Community opportunities:
- Peer mentoring
- Study tables
- Field trips to Sherwin-Williams
- Resume writing and career coaching
Who’s eligible?
- Student pursuing a major in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Information Systems, or Computer Science.
How to apply?
- Must be accepted by the Sherwin-Williams Scholarship
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
College of Health and Human Sciences:
Get to know your peers by joining the Exercise Science Learning Community. This is a great opportunity to get involved in your school and build a good academic foundation.
Department/College:
- College of Health and Human Sciences
Community Opportunities:
- Engage with faculty in the profession
- Learn career opportunities for your major
Who’s eligible?
- Students pursuing Exercise Science major.
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Introduction to Exercise Science (1 credit)
- Human Anatomy & Physiology (3 credits)
- Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab (1 credit))
Connect with your peers in Health and Human Sciences. Students will learn with peers in health-related majors. This is a great opportunity to learn about your career and additional opportunities the college has to offer.
Department/College:
- College of Health and Human Sciences
Community Opportunities:
- Engage with various health professionals
- Learn career opportunities for your major and other majors in health professions
Who’s eligible?
- Exploratory HHS, Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Emergency Medical Services, and Applied Exercise Science majors
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology (3 credits)
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology lab (1 credt)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Connect with your peers in Nursing! Join this large community of pre nursing students in the Nursing Learning Community. In this community, students have the ability to form study groups, build relationships, and get involved.
Department/College:
- College of Health and Human Sciences
Community opportunities:
- Interact with faculty and upperclassmen in nursing
- Build a strong support system
- Get connected with student organizations
Who’s eligible?
- Students pursing the Nursing major
How to apply?
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
There are multiple Nursing Learning Community experiences available. A student’s placement in one of the various Nursing experiences depends upon availability and also academic advisor recommended placement.
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Nursing #1 |
Introduction to Nursing (1 credit) Special Topics (1 credit) Human Anatomy & Physiology (3 credits) Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab (1 credit) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry (3 credits) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry Lab (1 credit) |
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Nursing #2 |
Introduction to Nursing (1 credit) Special Topics (1 credit) Human Anatomy & Physiology (3 credits) Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab (1 credit) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry (3 credits) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry Lab (1 credit) |
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Nursing #3 |
Introduction to Nursing (1 credit) Special Topics (1 credit) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry (3 credits) Introduction Gen Org & Biochemistry Lab (1 credit) |
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Nursing #4 |
Introduction to Nursing (1 credit) Special Topics (1 credit) Human Anatomy & Physiology (3 credits) Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab (1 credit) |
Williams Honors College:
The Williams Honors College Commuter Learning Community is designed for students that will not live on campus but want to make the most of the campus experience. This community will connect students with campus and the Honors College experience.
Department/College:
- Williams Honors College
Community opportunities:
- Join one WHC organization
- Attend 2 of the 3 Dine and Discover events
- Participate in the First-Year Speaker Series events
- Attend 2 advising appointments with the Honors Advisor
Who’s eligible?
- Students admitted to the Williams Honors College
How to apply?
- Must be accepted by the Williams Honors College
Courses included (fall semester)
- Nature/Nurture Honors Colloquium (3 credits)
For more information contact:
Dan Reichert, M.Ed.
Director, Learning Communities & First Year Seminar
330-972-7323 or dreichert@uakron.edu