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The Akron Rises Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff and fellow students early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide support for Akron Rises students and assist in getting them connected to The University of Akron community. Students may have the opportunity (based on testing and course availability) to enroll in a Basic Math or Basic Writing course with their peers from Akron Experience.

Department/College:

• Exploratory Advising & Academic Support

Community opportunities:

• Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
• Social events and networking opportunities
• First-Year Seminar taught by your Retention Coordinator

Who’s eligible / How to apply?

• Students who are admitted through the Akron Rises Program.

Possible courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Basic Math (4 load hours)
• Basic Writing (4 load hours)
• Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)

The Emerging Leaders Program creates an opportunity for first-year students to become actively engaged in the campus community through leadership development, civic engagement and self-discovery. It is through academic achievement, mentoring and co-curricular involvement that students experience a holistic approach to college life and later as civic leaders in society.

Department/College:

• Department of Residence Life and Housing

Community opportunities:

• Make new friends in a unique Learning Community
• Award-winning leadership training
• Membership in America's No. 1 program board (RHPB)
• Work with great entertainers
• Arrive to school early
• Be a part of ¹ú²úÂ×Àí from the start

Who’s eligible?

• Students of any major can apply. Students are selected through an application process by the Department of Residence Life and Housing. As a part of the community experience, students are required to reside on campus in the designated residence hall spaces reserved for the Emerging Leaders Program.

How to apply?

• For more information and details on how to apply, please click here to visit housing’s website.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)

Courses included (spring semester)

• Leadership Principles & Instruction (2 credits)

EXPLORE your career and major options! In our EXPLORE Learning Communities you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself, your interests, skills, and values and how they impact your career. You will also connect with current students to learn about campus resources and fun things to do at ¹ú²úÂ×Àí!

Department/College:

• Exploratory Advising and Academic Support

Community opportunities:

• Explore majors and career pathways
• Learn about career readiness and college success
• Connect with student peer mentors
• Timely transition into degree-granting college

Who’s eligible?

• Students exploring and deciding between 2 or more majors.

How to apply?

• Exploratory students will be placed into one of three EXPLORE Learning Community experiences by their academic advisor during their assigned New Roo Advising appointment.

Courses included (fall semester)

EXPLORE #1

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)

EXPLORE #2

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Introduction to Public Speaking (3 credits)

EXPLORE #3

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Introduction to Ethics (3 credits)

Step into the FreshStart Learning Community, a specialized initiative by the Office of Multicultural Development tailored for all college freshmen, with a particular focus on those who didn't achieve the high school GPA they aspired to. Crafted to build a robust foundation for academic success, FreshStart embraces a holistic approach to student development. Through mentorship, collaborative learning, and a commitment to personal growth, FreshStart aims to empower students for a successful transition into their college journey. Join us at FreshStart, where we create a path for a vibrant, culturally rich, and thriving academic experience anchored in a commitment to inclusive excellence through a variety of perspectives.

Department/College:

• Office of Multicultural Development

Community Opportunities:

• Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
• Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
• Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
• Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
• Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with FreshStart, easing the financial aspects of your college experience

Who’s eligible?

• FreshStart invites students with any high school GPA, emphasizing a commitment to a solid beginning in college. Applicants must demonstrate a serious dedication to their FreshStart journey. Open to individuals from all majors.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form.
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Academic Support (weekly)

Courses included (spring semester)

• Academic Support (weekly)

The I PROMISE Zips Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for I PROMISE students and assist in getting students connected to The University of Akron community. In the spring, the focus shifts to building a legacy at ¹ú²úÂ×Àí and in the community. 

Department/College:

• Exploratory Advising and Academic Support

Community opportunities:

• Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
• Participate in civic engagement opportunities designed to cultivate young emerging leaders
• Built in study table support
• Social events and networking opportunities

Who’s eligible?

• Students who are I PROMISE scholarship recipients from the I PROMISE School.

Courses included (fall semester)

• First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
• Academic Support (Weekly)
• Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials

Courses included (spring semester)

• Special Topic: Building Your Legacy through Career and Leadership (2 credits)
• Academic Support (Weekly)
• Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials 

This community is perfect for first-year college students who are passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) and are recipients of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship. It provides a lively environment where you can connect with like-minded peers, collaborate, explore, and grow together in your STEM interests. You'll have access to opportunities for personal and professional development. From mentorship programs with experienced STEM professionals to internships and career pathways, the program provides you with the necessary tools and resources for collegiate success.

Department/College:

• Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS) 

Community opportunities:

• Complete an Individual Success Plan with a retention coordinator
• Meet with a peer mentor weekly
• Attend various social and cultural events
• Scheduled academic progress checks to support students’ performance in the classroom
• For students residing on campus, students will live together in the OARS Living-Learning Community

Who’s eligible?

• Students who are selected as participants in the Choose Ohio First program. Further information can be found here and you can contact OARS@uakron.edu for further information.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)

The PASSAGE Learning Community is crafted to be an inviting space where individuals from all backgrounds unite in a spirit of fellowship, forming a close and supportive network. Emphasizing a fusion of varied perspectives and experiences, this learning community is dedicated to creating an environment that welcomes participants from all walks of life. It encourages a deep sense of connection and camaraderie rooted in diversity of thought. Following the principles of PASSAGE (Promoting Awareness, Social Sensitivity, and Genuine Empathy), the community is committed to shared experiences, collaborative learning, and mutual support. It aims to blend individuals with a variety of viewpoints into a cohesive fellowship, fostering a rich learning environment that appreciates the uniqueness of each participant while embracing inclusive excellence.

Department/College:

• Office of Multicultural Development

Community opportunities:

• Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
• Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
• Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
• Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
• Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with PASSAGE, easing the financial aspects of your college experience

Who’s eligible?

• PASSAGE invites students with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.50 or higher, offering an opportunity for those seeking a strong start in college. Open to individuals from all majors.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form .
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Academic Support (weekly)

Courses included (spring semester)

• Leadership course
• Academic Support (weekly)

The Pre-Med Learning Community is focused towards Biology, Biomedical Science, or Biochemistry students who are serious about preparing for medical school. The community involves linked courses in Biology and Chemistry that are required first semester courses, and a course that introduces students to healthcare principles and practices. Within the healthcare course provides exposure to physicians and health care professionals from a variety of areas as well as practical information about the traditional and partnership pathways to medical school.

Department/College:

• Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences

Community opportunities:

• Meet fellow pre-med students
• Form study groups
• Learn about different areas of medicine/healthcare from professionals in the field
• Learn about the medical school application process/partnership programs

Who’s eligible?

• Direct Admit Biology, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry majors, and other majors with at least pre-calculus placement.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form .
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Health-Care Delivery Systems (1 credit)
• Principles of Biology (4 credits)
• Principles of Biology Lab
• Principles of Chemistry (3 credits)
• Principles of Chemistry Lab (1 credit)

This Learning Community is open to first-year marketing and sales majors or students interested in pursuing a career in marketing or sales. The group will explore opportunities to connect with other students in those major, as well as get a head start in creating a network with alumni and companies in Northeast Ohio.

Department/College:

• College of Business 

Community opportunities:

• Have access to join ¹ú²úÂ×Àí's American Marketing Association, Fisher Sales Society, and other student groups that focus on these areas
• Gain valuable information about the future of Marketing and Sales, not only from a trends perspective, but also from a career perspective
• Engage with community partners in experiential learning projects and company tours

Who’s eligible?

• Any incoming, first-year Marketing and/or Sales majors in the College of Business

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

Experience Business in an immersive way this fall by joining our new Business Living Learning Community! Your involvement will open pathways of opportunity as you enjoy community amenities and connect with other business majors. This unique experience will integrate academic, social, and career development to support students in making a smooth, successful transition to college life at The University of Akron. Students will live as "neighbors" to one another in our newest campus residence hall, take the Business Success Seminar (BUSN110) course together, and engage in various events designed to connect students to their business education, the corporate world, and many of its key players.

Department/College:

• College of Business

Community opportunities:

• Learn time management & study skills that will be valuable for first -year business majors adjusting to college life.
• Build relationships with students while living in residence hall and taking Business Success Seminar (BUSN:110) as community.
• Connect with business faculty and staff at various University of Akron and College of Business events.

Who’s eligible?

• Any Incoming, first-year College of Business student.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form.
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

Understanding individual strengths and building relationships with others enhances one’s ability for a successful future career in business. The College of Business Leadership Learning Community will provide students with leadership concepts surrounding purpose, ethics, and empowerment in a group-curricular setting while having out-of-class experiences to engage and apply their learning. Students will learn, first-hand, what it means to be an effective leader.

Department/College:

• College of Business

Community opportunities:

• Access to join the Leadership Designation Program prior to other ¹ú²úÂ×Àí students
• Interactive class activities that are focused on leadership and enhancing personal skills
• Network with guest speakers who are business leaders and innovators
• Sample class topics: Intro to leadership, making decisions, lessons from idols, leading and following

Who’s eligible?

• Any Incoming, first-year College of Business student.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form.
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (Fall Semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

Have you ever wondered what it takes to own and operate your own business? This Learning Community will help any incoming business student who has the passion and drive to create new business opportunities in an ever-changing environment.

Department/College:

• College of Business

Community opportunities:

• Network with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs
• Engage with community partners (including Bounce Innovation Hub)
• Gain valuable tools into the creation and implementation of owning your own business
• Topics will include: thinking like an entrepreneur, the early steps in business planning, and strategies every new entrepreneur should keep in mind.

Who’s eligible?

• Any incoming, first-year College of Business student.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form .
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

This Learning Community is open to first-year sport business and sport analytics majors or students interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry. This group will explore opportunities to connect with other students in those majors, as well as get a head start in creating a network with alumni and sport industry professionals in Northeast Ohio.

Department/College:

• College of Business

Community opportunities:

• Have access to join ¹ú²úÂ×Àí’s student organization SABA (Sport Analytics and Business Association)
• Gain valuable information about the sport industry and how to prepare yourself for future career opportunities
• Connect with Sport Analytics and Sport Business faculty, students and industry professionals to start growing your network and build relationships

Who’s eligible?

• For an incoming, first-year Sport Business and/or Sports Analytics majors.

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form .
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

This Learning Community is designed to provide a supportive environment for any woman student seeking a career in business or another related field. Topics will incorporate the impacts and challenges women face in the workplace, and strategies for leveraging strengths to achieve success.

Department/College:

• College of Business

Community opportunities:

• Make connections with local women industry leaders from ¹ú²úÂ×Àí College of Business Advisory Boards and alumni network
• Hear from special guest speakers on gender-related issues in the workplace
• Includes membership in the Women in Business student organization
• Sample class topics: Establishing a workplace presence, giving and receiving constructive feedback, navigating workplace bias, developing emotional intelligence, self-awareness

Who’s eligible?

• Any incoming, first-year College of Business woman

How to apply?

1. Apply through the LC interest form.
2. Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Courses included (Fall semester)

• Adaptive CBA Success Seminar (1 credit)

This learning community is designed for students who are majoring in Computer Information Systems-Cybersecurity and Networking. Students will learn about the fields of cybersecurity and networking and interact with peers, faculty, and staff. Additionally, students will participate in college-based activities and receive support from academic advising and consistent check ins on progress within major.

Department/College:

• College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Community opportunities:

• Develop faculty and staff connections with the college
• Learn more about the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
• Receive support from academic advising

Who’s eligible?

• Students pursuing a major in either Networking or Cybersecurity

How to apply?

• Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
• Introduction to Unix (3 credits)

This learning community is designed for students who are majoring in CIS Programming and Computer Science. Students will learn about the fields of programming and computer science, how they relate to each other, and explore which degree is the best fit for their career. Students will participate in college-based activities and events and receive support from academic advising and consistent check ins on progress within major.

Department/College:

• College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Community opportunities:

• Develop faculty and staff connections with the college
• Learn  more about the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
• Receive support from academic advising

Who’s eligible?

• Students pursuing a major in either Computer Science or CIS Programming.

How to apply?

• Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)

This Engineering Learning Community provides aspiring engineering students of all disciplines the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for those engineering students who have placed into Algebra for Calculus. Students will participate in an academic support program built into their math course.

Department/College:

• College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Community Opportunities:

• Faculty and staff connection with the college
• Get to know more about the College of Engineering and Polymer Science
• Built in study table support for math

Who’s eligible?

• Students pursing any Engineering major and who have placed into Algebra for Calculus.

How to apply?

• Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)

• Algebra for Calculus (4 credits)

• Academic Support (Weekly)

Get to know your peers by joining the Exercise Science Learning Community. This is a great opportunity to get involved in your school and build a good academic foundation.

Department/College:

• College of Health and Human Sciences

Community Opportunities:

• Engage with faculty in the profession
• Learn career opportunities for your major

Who’s eligible?

• Students pursuing Exercise Science major.

How to apply?

• Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (fall semester)

• Introduction to Exercise Science (1 credit)
• Human Anatomy & Physiology (3 credits)
• Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab (1 credit))

Connect with your peers in Nursing! Join this large community of pre nursing students in the Nursing Learning Community. In this community, students have the ability to form study groups, build relationships, and get involved.

Department/College:

• College of Health and Human Sciences

Community opportunities:

• Interact with faculty and upperclassmen in nursing
• Build a strong support system
• Get connected with student organizations

Who’s eligible?

• Students pursing the Nursing major

How to apply?

• Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.

Courses included (fall semester)

There are multiple Nursing Learning Community experiences available. A student’s placement in one of the various Nursing experiences depends upon availability and also academic advisor recommended placement.