Frequently Asked Questions

Who will advise me during SOAR?
Do I have to take all the honors classes in my first year?
How do I register for Honors classes?
Do I have to take Honors Freshman Seminar?
What if the class is full?
Can I drop and add courses after SOAR?
What if I have AP credit or other exemptions for LBST courses?
How is Honors English 1103 different from non-honors sections?
How are Honors LBST classes different from non-honors LBST sections?
Can I take a non-honors section of LBST?
What if I am in a Freshman Learning Community (FLC)?
What is the difference between a FLC and the University Honors Program (UHP)?
If I am in a FLC and UHP, which summer reading book do I read?
What is the summer reading?
How do I decide which Honors LBST course to take?
Will I automatically be placed in Witherspoon Hall?

Who will advise me during SOAR?

There are several different ways you might be advised during SOAR. Be sure to inform whoever is advising you that you are in the University Honors Program.

Do I have to take all the honors classes in my first year?

No, you are not expected to take all honors class in your first year. It is a good idea to complete the LBST portion of the requirements in your first three semesters; then elect Honr 3700 or 3702 as the topics interest you at any time.

How do I register for Honors classes?

You must request a permit in order to register for an honors class. In order to save you some time during SOAR, you will find permits already issued on your registration screen. Register for Freshman Seminar, HONR 1100, and Honors English 1103. Then elect ONE other honors course: LBST 1102, 1105, or 2213. You will have all three authorizations, but you should register for ONLY ONE of them.

Do I have to take Honors Freshman Seminar?

It is recommended that you do, but you don’t have to. If you do want Honr 1100 and it is closed, please let me know. If you are in another learning community, such as Teaching Fellows or Business Honors, you do not need the UHP seminar also.

What if the class is full?

If the class is full, then you will not be able to register for it. You can elect another honors course. Do continue to check the courses over the summer, as students often change their schedules and openings occur.

Can I drop and add courses after SOAR?

Yes, it is important that you get the schedule that works best for you. Some courses which are closed when you are at SOAR might open at a later time. Check the class schedule often so you will know when a desired opening occurs.

What if I have AP credit or other exemptions for LBST courses?

Don’t take a course for which you already have credit. Try to elect another honors course. If you are not sure, please send me an email. Different AP scores will give you exemption from LBST 2101, 2102, or 2212. Remember that you are required to take two of the three LBST 2000 level courses as honors sections. If you receive exemption for two or more LBST courses, I will adjust your program individually. Just contact me. If you have an exemption and take the course anyway, you will receive those newly earned credits.

How is Honors English 1103 different from non-honors sections?

Honors sections are populated with UHP students and Teaching Fellows. It is a unique opportunity to work with other honors students, address questions raised in other honors classes, and to discuss the summer reading.

How are Honors LBST classes different from non-honors LBST sections?

Honors classes are smaller with an emphasis on discussion and writing. Courses focus on the themes of the program.

Can I take a non-honors section of LBST?

You should not elect another 1000 level LBST course unless you are sure you will study abroad either for a semester or during a summer session. You can elect one 2000 level LBST course, non-honors.

What if I am in a Freshman Learning Community (FLC)?

If you are in a FLC, you will take their freshman seminar instead of Honors 1100. If you are required to take a FLC LBST course, then you may do so. Do be sure to elect the Honors section of English 1103, however.

What is the difference between a FLC and the University Honors Program (UHP)?

UHP is a four year interdisciplinary program which complements your major field of study. Students who complete all UHP requirements graduate with University Honors distinction, which is noted on the transcript and diploma. While there are similarities with the FLC, such as summer reading, housing, and extracurricular activities, there are significant differences. The FLC focuses primarily on the first year at the university and is often attached to a particular discipline.

If I am in a FLC and UHP, which summer reading book do I read?

Both.

What is the summer reading?

The University Honors Program will have a special custom reader for the new academic year. Everyone in the program is expected to read it. We will have special events and discussions about the reading in early fall. The book will be ready for purchase in mid June. Details on the book and how to purchase it will be sent to you by email.

The University also has a summer selection for freshmen. This book will be available at the bookstores on campus and across the street (Gray’s Bookstore). The book is “Listening is an Act of Love” by Dave Isey. Mr. Isey will be visiting campus in October. If “Listening is an Act of Love” is on a course list, then you should also purchase that book along with the UHP reader.

How do I decide which Honors LBST course to take?

You can read over the course descriptions on the Honors webpage at . Choose a course that interests you and fits your schedule. What if there is another Honors class I would like to take? You will need to contact the Honors office to obtain a permit for another class. These permits can be issued only through the UHP office, so you need to contact either Ms. Rothwell or Ms. Olbrich.

Will I automatically be placed in Witherspoon Hall?

No. You must initiate the change in request or preference for Witherspoon Hall. Honors will verify your eligibility, but you must follow all Housing forms and policies. Work directly with the Housing Office.