SXU Seminar
Course Description
SXU Seminar is a one-credit hour seminar required of all students entering Saint Xavier University with 45 credit hours or less. Students must complete the SXU seminar in the first Fall semester of attendance. The curriculum includes an introduction into the Saint Xavier University community, development of an appreciation of the broader culture of a university education, diversity, wellness, academic support services strategies, and the use of technology. Successful completion of SXU Seminar is a requirement for graduation from the University.
Why a Seminar?
In addition to your new academic knowledge gained from an education rooted in the Liberal Arts, we want you to learn skills for life success, a desire for life-long learning, and aspiration to stay in service to your community. The SXU Seminar is a great way to get focused before the rest of your collegiate experience, to have some new experiences, and to broaden your perspectives. Plus, you’ll get to have fun and meet other first year students.
Seminar Objectives
The SXU Seminar will give you an opportunity to explore issues relevant to new students in a university environment, while learning more about issues relevant to SXU students in particular. When you complete the seminar you should have a better understanding of resources available at the University and issues important to the SXU community. You will become familiar with models of learning while focusing on your own academic goals. Most importantly, you will have experience working collaboratively with other students and develop important skills to ensure your academic success. Additionally, you will share a common reading assignment with other new students at SXU; gain knowledge and understanding of the diverse cultures and ideas at SXU and in the larger Chicagoland area; participate in learning experiences outside the classroom; and enhance your observation, critical thinking, group discussion, reading, writing, speaking, and visual presentation skills.
SXU Seminar Instructors
The SXU Seminar is taught by a faculty or staff person interested in the special issues and challenges of being a first year student. All instructors have a minimum of a Masters degree and participate in collaborative training and professional development. The Seminar is also supported by a Peer Mentor – a student who has been academically successful and who is trained and available to assist new students in navigating the culture at Saint Xavier.
See an Academic Advisor for further information on enrolling in an SXU Seminar.