By Ava Burchell, Staff Writer
This week, many Gettysburg College offices are participating in Academic Exploration Week. There are over 20 different academic department information sessions, as well as information sessions for Pre-law and Pre-health advising. There are course registration workshops and drop-in hours with different deans to help answer questions about course selection for next year. Lastly, there are panels on majors and careers, as well as a first-generation faculty panel.
Associate Director of Residential & First-Year Programs Allison Schofield said, “The purpose of Academic Exploration Week is to help first-year and sophomore students learn more about academic departments and about the process of declaring a Major and/or Minor. We hope students will take the opportunity to learn about academic departments they are interested in and feel more confident in declaring a Major and/or Minor.”
The Center for Student Success and the Office of Residential & First-Year Programs created the concept for Academic Exploration Week during the Spring 2021 semester. This year is the second time that Gettysburg has hosted this opportunity for students. Although departments are not required to participate in Academic Exploration Week, over 20 departments are hosting an information session this week.
Schofield wanted students to make the most of this week. She said, “We hope students will explore multiple options throughout the week and learn about different departments they may be interested in. Even if a student feels like they have decided on a Major, this is a good opportunity to explore possible Minors as well. Overall, we hope that students keep an open mind and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about academic departments and connect with faculty and staff.”
Overall, students have reacted positively to Academic Exploration Week. Many students have taken advantage of the information sessions and panels.
Thibault Eelen ’25 said, “I went to the history information session and it helped me learn a lot about my potential major.”
