ORIE 306: First Year Experience (2nd Semester)
For First Year Students



Description:  ORIE 306 is a one semester, non-credit course required of all freshmen at Towson University who enter in the Fall semester as a follow-up to ORIE 305.  Each freshman student is assigned to an FYE advisor who assists the student in his/her transition to Towson and who serves as a facilitator and resource person during the student's first year.  The purposes of ORIE 306 are to help freshman students:

a) to become more knowledgeable about the academic programs, policies, and opportunities at Towson;
b) to learn and apply the skills necessary to make sound decisions about his/her educational program at Towson;
c) to identify and use resources at the University which will enhance his/her  educational experience; and
d) to select and begin to transition into a major.

Philosophy:   The philosophy underlying ORIE 306 is very simple.  Students who:
a) become knowledgeable about the University and who invest time and energy into learning about the academic offerings and opportunities of the University;
b) develop a good working relationship with an academic advisor;
c) learn and practice effective decision making skills; and
d) assume primary responsibility for making sound educational decisions for themselves

will gain more from their Towson University education than those who do not.  This course is intended to promote these activities and support students in their development.

Learning Outcomes/Objectives:   Through ORIE 306, students will:

a) understand the General Education program at Towson including its purpose, philosophy, and requirements more fully;
b) learn how to develop an educational plan for their second year;
c) learn about educational resources available to them which address their interests and/or needs;
d) learn how to select, schedule, and register for courses for the Fall  semester
e) if appropriate, select, declare, and begin the transition into their major

Course Requirements:  Basic requirements for each student in ORIE 306 are to:

a) attend an Academic Planning Workshop to be held in March;
b) have and use an email account to facilitate communication between the student and his/her advisor;
c) consult with his/her advisor prior to making any changes in course enrollment during the Spring semester;
d) meet with his/her advisor during the semester to discuss Fall course selection;
e) create and maintain an educational records and planning folder;
f) attend an advisement and registration information session to be held in April; and
g) complete and submit an evaluation of the FYE experience and the advisor.

rev. 9/05