2005-2006
News Release
REF NO.: 339
SUBJECT: Helping first-year Memorial students overcome school fears
DATE: July 19, 2006
Students starting first-year University are often apprehensive about what will be expected of them. A Memorial University pilot project launching in August is designed to help alleviate those fears by introducing new students to some basic research and writing skills, and giving them a sneak preview of what their professors will expect.
“Students are understandably fearful about making the transition to university, and that can hamper them,” said Librarian Jan Guise, one of the creators of a new program called SPARC (Summer Program in Academic Research & Communication). “Every fall we see new students who look bewildered and intimidated walking around our huge library.”
Genevieve Warren is an incoming first-year student in St. John’s who has registered for SPARC. “I consider myself to be a good student, but I’d rather know I’m prepared,” she said. “I just want a little more comfort with what to expect.”
During the four-day program, participants like Ms. Warren will research and complete projects that they themselves choose. They will also hone their writing skills, and have two private sessions with a Writing Centre tutor.
“The idea is to give them some guided, hands-on experience to help them make the transition from high school to university-level research and writing,” Ms. Guise said. “The other benefit, of course, is that this program will introduce a student to some peers. Familiar faces always help.”
The challenge now is convincing students to give up those last days of summer to get a leg up on fall semester. Organizers hope the pilot will draw 30 incoming students.
Registrations for the SPARC program, which runs Aug 28-31, are being accepted until Aug 1. Space is limited. The enrolment fee is $25. To register, visit contact Jan Guise at 737-7427.
REF NO.: 339
SUBJECT: Helping first-year Memorial students overcome school fears
DATE: July 19, 2006
Students starting first-year University are often apprehensive about what will be expected of them. A Memorial University pilot project launching in August is designed to help alleviate those fears by introducing new students to some basic research and writing skills, and giving them a sneak preview of what their professors will expect.
“Students are understandably fearful about making the transition to university, and that can hamper them,” said Librarian Jan Guise, one of the creators of a new program called SPARC (Summer Program in Academic Research & Communication). “Every fall we see new students who look bewildered and intimidated walking around our huge library.”
Genevieve Warren is an incoming first-year student in St. John’s who has registered for SPARC. “I consider myself to be a good student, but I’d rather know I’m prepared,” she said. “I just want a little more comfort with what to expect.”
During the four-day program, participants like Ms. Warren will research and complete projects that they themselves choose. They will also hone their writing skills, and have two private sessions with a Writing Centre tutor.
“The idea is to give them some guided, hands-on experience to help them make the transition from high school to university-level research and writing,” Ms. Guise said. “The other benefit, of course, is that this program will introduce a student to some peers. Familiar faces always help.”
The challenge now is convincing students to give up those last days of summer to get a leg up on fall semester. Organizers hope the pilot will draw 30 incoming students.
Registrations for the SPARC program, which runs Aug 28-31, are being accepted until Aug 1. Space is limited. The enrolment fee is $25. To register, visit contact Jan Guise at 737-7427.
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