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SLS 1501 -听 Honors Introduction to Academic Life

Course Description

SLS 1501 is a required course for all first-year University Honors Program (UHP) students and is designed to support a successful transition to college. The course equips students with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to achieve their academic and personal goals. Key topics include:

  • Understanding the nature and expectations of postsecondary education
  • Time management and organizational strategies
  • Effective study techniques and test-taking skills
  • Communication and collaboration skills
  • Academic integrity and use of library and research resources

In addition to academic preparation, the course emphasizes community-building and belonging. Through the UHP common hour, students connect with peers, participate in engaging discussions and activities, and receive mentoring from trained upper-division UHP Peer Academic Coaches. This support helps first-year students navigate college life, develop study strategies, and become involved in the Honors community.

UHP Common Read

Each year, the UHP Common Read provides a shared intellectual experience for all first-year Honors students. The current selection is titled Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover. Each student enrolled in SLS 1501 receives a free copy of the book, made possible by the generosity of the Mrs. Esther Esquil铆n de Gosser Endowed Fund. The Common Read serves as a foundation for meaningful discussion, reflection, and connection across the program.

Educated-Westover

Syllabus

You can find the sample syllabus here.

Meet the SLS 1501 Instructors

Dr. Jennifer Bebergal
Dr. Jennifer Bebergal
Associate Dean, Academic Support and Student Learning
 听 Dr. Debbi Johnson-Rais
Dr. Debbi Johnson-Rais
Executive Director, Strategic Academic Programs

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Dr. Katie Burke
Dr. Katie Burke
Assistant Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Affairs
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Dr. Dax Boatwright

Dr. Dax Boatwright
Assistant Director, Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

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Dr. Kathleen Gardner
Dr. Kathleen Gardner
Executive Director, Housing
 听 Dr. Rebecca Goldstein
Dr. Rebecca Goldstein
Director, SAEM Assessment & Research

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Dr. Comfort Olugbuyi
Dr. Comfort Olugbuyi
Associate Director, Online Academic Support & Educational Technology
 听 Dr. Jaeson Weber
Dr. Jaeson Weber
Director, Emergency Management
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Dr. Angella Wint
Dr. Angella Wint
University Ombudsman
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Dr. Bryan Hursh

Dr. Bryan Hursh

Program Coordinator, Undergraduate Research & Inquiry
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