Brave Start

• Description: English courses (ENG 1040, 1050, 1060) are taught by the same instructors throughout the sequence.

• Benefit: Instructors build rapport and understand each student’s writing strengths and weaknesses, improving tutoring effectiveness.

• Requirement: All Brave Start students enroll in specialized sections of Freshman Seminar 1000.

Advisors help students pick additional courses that align with their interests and intended majors.

• Design: Courses are highly structured but adhere to English department standards (e.g., writing portfolios).

• Feedback: Multiple graded assignments are scheduled before midterm so students can monitor and adjust their progress.

• Courses: ENG 1020 and ENG 1030 are required writing labs.

• Purpose: These labs support students in completing ENG 1050 and ENG 1060 more successfully.

• Format: Instructors meet one-on-one with students for writing and advising conferences.

• Encouragement: Students are encouraged to use tutoring, counseling and career advising based on their needs — supporting a comprehensive academic experience.

• Meetings: Face-to-face advising continues throughout the freshman year.

• Specialty Guidance: Students pursuing specialized majors are encouraged to consult with advisors in those fields.

• Tools: Instructors leverage digital tools to complement course discussions and send reminders/announcements.

• Transition Help: These tech supports aid students' transition from high school to college life.