WiSE Transfer Learning Communities

Thanks for choosing Iowa State University! Now it’s time to think about being involved in a learning community. Joining a learning community is a great way to ease your transition to Iowa State as a transfer student. The information below describes the WiSE-Transfer LC program and how to sign up.

What is the WiSE-Transfer LC?

WiSE-Transfer LC is a small group of students who share some common courses and live together in Frederiksen Court. This living area gives you more independence than the traditional residence halls , but is still convenient, academically supportive, and fun. As a WiSE-Transfer LC member, you’ll meet regularly with peer mentors (upper-division students) to discuss your coursework and adjustment to Iowa State University.

Why should I join the WiSE-Transfer LC?

• Make the big campus smaller for a fast, smooth, and easy transition to Iowa State
• Get to know people and make friends in your major right away
• Develop a supportive network with other students, peer mentors, and professors
• Connect your learning in multiple classes
• Learn about the possibilities in your major

What are the advantages of living in Frederiksen Court?

• More independence and space
• Washer and dryers in every apartment
• Fully furnished
• A convenient food court
• Utilities included
• No deposits
• Close to campus

Check out Frederiksen Court out on-line.

 
What are the benefits of working with a peer mentor?

Peer mentors are upper-division students in similar majors who work with members of the learning community. WiSE-Transfer LC mentors coordinate out-of-class activities, ranging from study groups to social events. They also provide a voice of experience and can consult with individual students, too.

Do we just live together, or are there any course connections?

As a WiSE-Transfer LC member , you will meet weekly with your learning community, during that time you will have the opportunity to:

• Receive advising on how your transfer credits apply to your degree program
• Get to know other ISU students
• Share a dinner with professors
• Go on plant visits
• Participate in service learning projects

How much time does it take?

Being in a learning community takes the same amount of time you’d spend to be a successful student at Iowa State. And Plus, it can help you manage your time by providing built-in opportunities for study groups and forming connections with your classmates.

How do I sign up?

Signing up for a learning community is done through your online housing contract. Learn how to apply to the WiSE Transfer Learning Community.

Questions?

Contact Lora Leigh Chrystal, Oncampus Coordinator, Program for Women in Science and Engineering, at 515-294-5278 or lchrysta@iastate.edu.

Did you know. . . ?

• Iowa State was recently ranked in the Top 5 nationally for learning communities (U.S. News and World Report 2003 rankings).
• More than 46% of first-year students at Iowa State participate in one or more learning communities.
• Students in learning communities are more likely to earn higher first-semester grades.
• Approximately 1/3 of Iowa State’s learning communities offer a residential living environment for their students.
• About 90% of students in learning communities return to Iowa State for their second year of study.
• Learning community students report greater satisfaction with the overall quality of instruction, overall quality of classmates, and overall experience at Iowa State.

Lora Leigh Chrystal, WiSE Coordinator
(515) 294-5278
lchrysta@iastate.edu