FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a learning community?

A Living-Learning Community is a small group of students, usually from one major or area of interests (e.g. biology, psychology) who live in the same wing of Sanderson Hall and take two courses together during the fall semester of their first year at WCU. This arrangement helps ease the transition from high school to college by helping students make friends more quickly and connect with University faculty and staff. 

What are the different Learning Communities I can choose from?

• Global Linkages (for all majors)
• Determining Goals and Preparing for the Future (for Premajor students)
• Forming Communities (for Commuter students)
• Compassionate and Critical Creativity (for all majors)
• Leadership and Community Action (for all majors, social work majors especially encouraged to apply)
• Global Environmental Issues (for all majors)
• Teaching and Learning in History and Popular Culture (for all majors)

Do I automatically get selected to a Learning Community if I send in my application to WCU?

No. You must complete a special electronic registration form for the Learning Communities, which will be available on this wesite in January, 2008.  Once received, your application will be reviewed by the Learning Community Committee.  Students who qualify for this selected learning community will be admitted on a first-come/first-serve basis.  Your registration in the learning community you selected will be confirmed by e-mail or letter. 

How do I register for a Learning Community?

Online Registration Form

Do I get to choose my roommate?

Yes.  When you fill out your housing forms, you may indicate that you would like to share with a specific person.  That person must also list your name on her his housing form.  Once we review the application and provided you are admitted into the learning community, we will do our best to accommodate your request.

What are the benefits of a Learning Community?

• Students agree that participating in a Learning Community improved their academic performance.
• Students appreciate how the Learning Community provided a ready network of potential friendships.
• Students welcomed the opportunity to build group skills in both a residential and classroom setting.
• Students note that participation in the Learning Community helped their adjustment to university life and would participate in the experience again if given the chance.
• Students welcomed the opportunity to build group skills in both a residential and classroom setting.
• Faculty members teaching in the Learning Communities support innovative programs on campus.

Is there any extra cost for joining Learning Community?

No. There is no additional cost for joining a learning community.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Prof. Victoria Tischio, vtischio@wcupa.edu for questions related to academics.
Shelley Siedzikowski, ssiedzikow@wcupa.edu for questions related to student programs.
Marcus Harrison, mharrison@wcupa.edu for questions related to housing or Sanderson Hall.