Learning Communities

What Is A Learning Community?

A Learning Community is a small group of first year students who share a common academic interest, take two or more classes together, live on the same residence hall floor, and have the opportunity to participate in activities with the faculty to:

• Enhance their career development
• Network with professionals
• And have fun

What If I Join A Fraternity Or Sorority?

Fraternities often ask that you live in the house during your freshman year. Sororities generally have their new members live in the residence halls. If you join a fraternity consider the Alpha Learning Community.

So Why Should I Join?

Think about it, studying with your neighbors is a lot easier than studying alone. First year students who take the opportunity to work with faculty outside of class compete more effectively for jobs and internships than students who just go to class and back to their room. Out-of-class field trips and community service projects build resumes — and character. It's motivating to be around people who share your academic interests.

What Learning Communities Do You Offer?

For a complete list of available Learning Communities, check out the up-to-date listings by clicking here.

What Is The Cost To Join?

There is a $95.00 fee that is used to support out of class activities. In some cases, communities travel to New York, Chicago, or other major cities. Those trips are funded through the program fee, departmental contributions, and additional student funding. Students select from several destinations and price ranges when additional funding is required.

Previous out-of-class activities have included:

• Front row seats to Sandra Day O'Connor's visit
• A trip to New York
• Dinner with the Chancellor
• Real-time class with students in Spain
• Volunteering at the Food Bank
• Strategic Air & Space Museum visit
• A tour of Bryan/LGH Hospital
• Dinner at the home of the Dean of the College of Business Administration
• A spring break trip to Denver to visit various engineering sites
• A trip to Chicago
• Meeting with the dietician at the Hewitt Training Table
• Meeting with the State Education Association on appropriate classroom behavior
• Study sessions in all communities
• Tours of Pioneer Seeds, Chicago Board of Trade, and the Arbor Day Farm
• Faculty Recognition Dinners
• Etiquette Dinners
• Visiting the Nebraska Supreme Court

What If I Change My Major?

Not a problem, the classes you've taken will still apply to your general requirements. The experiences will still contribute to a great first year. And the faculty you've met might be able to help you meet other faculty.

Can I Live With A Friend Who Is Not In A Learning Community?

We will do our best to accomodate you and your friend, but we have limited space for our learning communities. If we can't put the two of you together we will contact you to see what you would like to do.