What are Learning Communities?

At Saint Louis University a residential learning community houses a group of students on one or more floors of a residence hall with an academic unit tie such as health sciences, honors, life sciences, or a common interest such as student leadership and service. They all share the common goal of creating intentional educational environments that bring educators and students together to enhance student learning. All Learning Communities are open to first year students and offer a variety of special features or programs, such as study groups, classrooms, resources, etc. The student Resident Advisors (RAs) that live on each floor help coordinate programs and activities related to the community focus. We highly encourage students to choose to co-enroll in courses (the FIGs) associated with the Learning Communities. Learning Communities are also open to freshmen commuter students.

What are First-Year Interest Groups (FIGs)?

FIGs are a co-enrollment option designed especially for first-time college students. A FIG is a small group of students taking one to three courses together and living together. 20 to 22 first year students are assigned to a FIG within the same Learning Community in one of the residence hall communities. FIGs offer students the opportunity to enhance their learning experience at Saint Louis University by surrounding themselves with peers who share their academic interests. Students that participate in these programs still benefit from attending a university with a diverse student body and getting involved in groups and other classes that allow them to interact with students with different interests.  FIGs are also open to freshmen commuter students.

What are the academic benefits of the FIGs?

Because most FIG members live in the same residence hall with students who take some of the same courses, it is much easier for them to form study groups and get help with challenging courses. Each FIG is also connected to a Learning Community and allows for increased interaction with faculty and academic staff. This gives FIG members the added benefit of direct faculty contact early in their collegiate experience, making their learning experience more personalized.  Studies show across the country that FIG students traditionally earn higher GPAs than students who are not enrolled in a FIG.

What are the social benefits of the FIGs?

The first year of college is often overwhelming for first year students, but joining a FIG is a great way to make friends easily and quickly in this large, diverse community. As a FIG member, new students have a built-in academic and social support group. They see their fellow FIG members on a regular basis, making it easier to form lasting friendships. FIG students participate in social events, both with their fellow FIG members and with other students in their residence hall. Freshmen commuter students in the FIGs will find that they have the benefit of being connected to a campus home that will assist them in their transition.

What are the benefits of the Learning Communities?

Studies show that students are more successful when their academic experiences are integrated with other aspects of their lives. A Learning Community program allows for interaction with others who share similar interests, therefore developing a common commitment to each other’s personal and academic success. In addition, ongoing dialogue with peers and educators assists students in making personal meaning of their academic experiences thus enhancing intellectual development. The Learning Communities (and the FIGs) don’t cost anything extra and they are a great way to make friends quickly and easily because you have some things in common.

What are the expectations of students that participate in Learning Communities?

Students are encouraged to participate in the activities and programs focused on the theme of the Learning Community. Many of the Learning Communities have established expectations for the participating members of the community. However, the programs offered will not just focus on the theme of the Learning Community but will also provide a variety of social and educational programs to assist with a student’s first year transition to the university. Making the transition from high school to college can be difficult. As you experience new freedoms, learn new routines and face new academic and personal challenges, a Learning Community can help you begin your college career on the right track. We encourage each student to become a partner in their education by becoming an active leader and learner within the Learning Community.