Navigate College with Confidence: Enroll in the College Success Seminar
Starting college is an exciting new chapter but can also bring unexpected challenges. Whether you're adjusting to a new academic workload, finding your place on campus, or figuring out where to turn for help, you're not alone.
US 1001: College Success Seminar is designed to help new Mountaineers thrive during their transition to college life. Based on real student experiences, the seminar equips you with tools, strategies, and campus connections to overcome the most common first-year challenges.
How to Register
Students often look for the College Success Seminar by name, but should search for "University Studies" during the registration process. The specific course code is University Studies 1001 (US 1001).
This 2-credit elective course can easily be added to a 12-15 credit-hour schedule without overwhelming the student's time. Courses are offered in Boone, Hickory, and Online.
Contact
If you have questions or would like more information about the course, email College Success Seminar Director, Katharine Johnson at johnsonk4@appstate.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need this class if I did well in high school?
College requires new strategies, and many high-achieving students find that what worked in high school doesn't always translate to college. This course is about more than building effective study habits, time management techniques, and goal-setting strategies to excel in any college course. US 1001 focuses on your holistic student experience, including social integration into campus, stress management, campus navigation, academic planning, and career exploration.
When is the class available?
US 1001 meets twice a week for 50 minutes, either MW or TR. Classes are in time slots between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What is the workload?
Earning a good grade is not difficult if you attend class, participate, and complete the outside assignments on time. Weekly assignments are practical and reflect what you're already doing, reinforcing in-class learning and real-life college tasks. This course can easily be added to a 12-15 credit-hour schedule without overwhelming your time.
Student Testimonials
Hear from other App State students about their experiences in the College Success Seminar:
- "It's a great class to take as a freshman. It helped a lot with the transition to college."
- "I liked learning to become more engaged in school activities and stay on top of my school work. I've learned many new study habits and ways to be more productive."
- "My favorite activity was the habit exercise. I enjoyed discovering what worked for me and what didn't because oversleeping is a bad habit I want to break."
- "US 1001 gave me confidence and helped me feel a sense of belonging."
Course Themes
Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and support from instructors and peer mentors, you'll learn how to:
- Manage Your Time and Academic Workload: Many students struggle to balance classes, assignments, and extracurriculars. In US 1001, you'll build routines, learn how to stay organized, and discover study strategies that work for you.
- Find Your People and Build Community: Starting college without knowing anyone can feel isolating. This course introduces you to campus resources, events, and involvement opportunities that help you make connections and build lifelong friendships.
- Ask for Help and Use Campus Resources: Whether you're unsure where to go for tutoring, advising, or mental health support, US 1001 will guide you through it. You'll learn how to self-advocate and connect with the people who are here to support you.
- Support Your Mental Health and Well-Being: College can be overwhelming—especially in times of stress or transition. You'll explore ways to take care of your overall health and develop effective coping skills to navigate the experience.
- Adjust to Life in a New Environment: Whether you're far from home, adjusting to life in Boone, or living with a roommate for the first time, US 1001 gives you a safe space to talk about the transition and find strategies that work.
- Explore Your Path and Set Meaningful Goals: Unsure about your major? Wondering how your interests align with potential careers? US 1001 helps you connect the dots between what you're learning now and where you want to go in the future.
College is a time of growth—and no one expects you to figure it all out on your own. In US 1001, you'll gain the tools to succeed both in and outside of the classroom, all while connecting with a community that wants to see you thrive.
US 1001 courses are taught by student-centered instructors who meet students twice a week, ensuring that someone is prioritizing and paying attention to their success. Class sizes are small, averaging 17 students, fostering an intimate environment where students can form relationships with both the instructor and peers.
Instructor Testimonials
College Success Seminar instructors are dedicated to the academic growth and development of their students. See what some of them have to say about teaching this course:
- "What I love most about working with students is the incredible sense of fulfillment from witnessing their growth and development. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to inspire curiosity and a love for learning. I especially cherish the moments when the "light goes on" and students are able to grasp a difficult concept. Guiding them through obstacles and celebrating their achievements is extremely rewarding."
- "I enjoy witnessing the growth of students. It's incredibly rewarding to help students navigate the struggles that come with adjusting to college and I enjoy assisting students realize their personal, academic, and career goals."
- "I love to provide individual support to students to help them with their unique needs and goals. I love being there to celebrate the wins with them and then support them through the more challenging moments."
- "I really enjoy learning about each student's unique journey: where they're from, what they like to do or are passionate about, why they chose their major, what career they hope to have after college. Education is NOT a 'One size fits all' institution, nor are our lived experiences."
- "Working with students brings new energy and new inspiration! I love the opportunity to see students gain a better understanding of themselves and being able to help them translate all of their experiences into their unique story they can share with others as they work to achieve their goals. And I love learning new things from them all the time!"