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SLS 1501 -Ìý 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 Esquilín 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
 Ìý 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
 Ìý 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
 Ìý 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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