In the final episode of our special series on first-year seminars, Sara Chilton, Lauren Feeley, Megan McMechen, and Lucy Sneader discuss best practices for designing and implementing first year seminars that foster academic success, build a sense of belonging and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in college.
See our full episode notes at https://www.centerforengagedlearning.org/first-year-seminars-academic-success/.
In the final episode of our special series on first-year seminars, Sara Chilton, Lauren Feeley, Megan McMechen, and Lucy Sneader discuss best practices for designing and implementing first year seminars that foster academic success, build a sense of belonging and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in college.
In this special series, students in Elon University’s Masters of Higher Education program explore why first-year seminars are considered high-impact educational practices.
Nolan Schultheis edited the episode and created the show art.
Music (“Bali”) by AudioCoffee: www.audiocoffee.net.
The series is produced by Elon University’s Center for Engaged Learning (www.CenterForEngagedLearning.org).
Nolan Schultheis (00:04):
Welcome to the Center for Engaged Learning special series on first year seminars featuring guest hosts from the Elon University Masters of Higher Education Program.
Sara Chilton (00:21):
Welcome to the final episode from Elon University's Center for Engaged Learning, as we wrap up our series on first year seminars and their impact on student success. Hi, we are your hosts, Sara Chilton,
Lauren Feeley (00:35):
Lauren Feeley,
Lucy Sneader(00:35):
Lucy Sneader,
Megan McMechen (00:37):
And Megan McMechen.
Sara Chilton (00:38):
In this episode, we'll bring it all together by discussing best practices for designing and implementing first year seminars that foster academic success, build a sense of belonging and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in college. From intentional course design to faculty engagement, mentorship, and inclusive practices. We'll explore actionable strategies that have proven to make a difference. So whether you're an educator, an administrator, or simply curious about how to better support first year students, this episode is for you. Let's dive into what works best in creating impactful student-centered first year seminars.
Lucy Sneader (01:20):
First year seminars should focus on teaching the basics, like time management, study skills, and how to stay organized. These are critical for helping students feel prepared for college level work, adding activities that encourage problem solving, grit, perseverance, and tackling challenges outside of their comfort zones can benefit first year seminars.
Sara Chilton (01:40):
Starting college can feel overwhelming, so it's important to design activities that help students connect with their peers and build a sense of community. Seminars should also introduce students to campus resources like tutoring, counseling, or student organizations so they know where to turn for help. Especially for first generation students and international students who we identify through the research need additional support.
Megan McMechen (02:05):
One of the most valuable aspects of a first-year seminar is access to engaged, supportive faculty. When students feel that they can approach their professors for advice or guidance, it makes a big difference. Bonus points, if the course includes a mix of faculty perspectives to keep things fresh and engaging,
Lauren Feeley (02:22):
The benefits of first-year seminars shouldn't stop after the first semester or the first year. Institutions should think about how to keep students supported throughout their whole time, enrolled in college, whether through mentorship, advanced academic courses, and learning communities. In addition, institutions should continue to assess and improve first year seminars based on what students actually need. Throughout this journey, we've explored the unique challenges faced by first year students and the critical role that first year seminars play in easing their transition. College first year seminars can do so much more than improve grades. They can help students feel prepared, connected, and ready to tackle college life head on.
Nolan Schultheis (03:14):
This series is produced by Elon Universities Center for Engaged Learning. Learn more about first-year seminars and other engaged learning topics at www.centerforengagedlearning.org.