The first-year educational experience was created to provide programming that is comprehensive in scope and addresses the importance of academic and intellectual development, the importance of becoming globally aware, the commitment to understanding diversity, the value of engaging in one’s community, and the need to seek balance between mind, body and spirit. To promote leadership, confidence, and community engagement, we help every student develop intellectual capabilities, aesthetic sense, physical well-being, spiritual identity, and social relationships.
Academic and Intellectual Development
Since its founding in 1845, Wittenberg’s curriculum has centered on the liberal arts as an educational model that develops the individual’s capacity to think, read, and communicate with precision, understanding, and imagination. Thus, one of the goals of the FYE is to assist students with their academic and intellectual development. Through participation in the FYE, students will continue to develop their
Personal and Moral Development
The undergraduate experience is a developmental process with students’ goals evolving with their intellectual and social development. The first year of college is a time of personal growth and exploration where students question their identity, beliefs, values, and career goals. Members of the Wittenberg community support each other in the personal search for balance that characterizes wholeness of person. We encourage all students to discern their vocations and to understand the meaningful connection between self-fulfillment and service to the world. Through participation in the FYE, students will engage in activities devoted to
Social Development
Wittenberg strives to create and to develop a community of learners – an environment where students can engage fully in the learning process. Most students come to college with fears and uncertainty – fears of failing tests or not fitting in with peers. Being afraid to ask questions, express opinions, or join group discussions can greatly hinder a student's learning. A community of learners is a place that supports inquiry and helps students generate ideas. We are also committed to providing opportunities for students to interact with others of widely different backgrounds, seeking common solutions to problems facing our world. By affirming the dignity of every person and fostering a spirit of respect, we create and expand opportunities to pursue knowledge in and out of the classroom. First-year students should be striving to understand the roles and responsibilities and benefits of membership in a community of learners. Through participation in the FYE, students will be supported in their transition to Wittenberg and will be encouraged to think about the importance of
