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Freshmen Feed on Summer Reading
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by Laura Walikainen, student writer
JULY 18, 2005 -- Science, technology and consumerism are just a few of the subjects Michigan Tech freshmen will explore this summer as they read "Feed," by M. T. Anderson. For the second year of MTU Orientation's Summer Reading program, this futuristic book was chosen to get incoming students thinking critically before they enter college.
"The book is fun and interesting, but it also gives students a lot to think about," said Beth Wagner, assistant dean, first-year programs. "The summer reading program helps to plant the seeds of inquiry and prepares students for Perspectives in the fall."
The highlight of this year's program will be a public address to be given by Anderson.
"The author is very excited that we picked his book," said Wagner. "And he will be here during orientation week. He is actually going to be leading one of the humanities 'Feed' discussion groups."
After the success of the reading program's first year, the orientation staff decided to make summer reading a tradition for freshmen coming to Michigan Tech.
"It went very well last year," said Wagner. "It was positively evaluated by both the faculty and staff, but also by the first-year students."
In addition to preparing new students for life inside the classroom, the summer reading experience is aimed at creating social connections between incoming students.
"Students have a common experience when they arrive," said Wagner. "The book gives them something common to talk about. Learning happens when people have a common experience and they can discuss it."
The summer reading program was made possible by a campus-wide effort.
"We'd like to thank everyone who participated," said Wagner. "It's a truly collaborative university project that has helped to build our community at Michigan Tech." |
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