MUSE Seminars
Fall 2008 Student Success Programs (formerly known as MUSE Workshops)
What is a Student Success Program?
Peer Mentor Program
Humanities Honors
MUSE Contact Information
What is the MUSE program?
MUSE is a program designed to bridge the gap from high school to college. Implemented in fall 2001 MUSE helps first-year students become integrated and aware of the standards required of university level students and scholars. MUSE consists of academic seminars linking scholarly content to skills that are necessary to be a successful in college. Strategies for studying, development of good writing skills, and information competency are among the topics covered in MUSE seminars. In addition to gaining skills and learning about the university, MUSE students fulfill three units of General Educationcoursework. MUSE seminars are limited to freshmen; only one MUSE seminar may be taken. MUSE seminars are offered in the fall semester only.
In addition to what takes place in the seminar classroom, The MUSE program offers helpful and thought provoking workshopsthroughout the fall (workshops are open to all SJSU students). Also associated with MUSE are the Peer Mentors who are here to help other students. Peer Mentors are upper division students assisting in MUSE seminars, running workshops, and staffing the Peer Mentor Center.
Why should I take a MUSE seminar?
Taking a MUSE seminar is a great opportunity to meet other first-year students. During your first semester as a MUSE student you will get to know at least 17 other first-year students at the University, as well as getting to know a faculty member and a Peer Mentor. Not only will you know them, but they will also get to know you. MUSE faculty may also act as an advisor to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses as a student.
Other reasons to take a MUSE seminar include:
Is there a reason that small class size is good?
There are many reasons that a small class size in beneficial:
How do I get into a MUSE seminar?
You can register for a MUSE seminar just as you would for any other course on campus. Simply review the seminars being offered and choose one that looks interesting to you!. Register soon, as classes tend to fill quickly.
Which MUSE seminar should I take for my major?
Speak with an Academic Advisor before jumping into any classes at the university. Your specified major may require pre-requisite coursework that will help satisfy General Education, so it is best to speak with an academic advisor who will help guide you as you select an appropriate MUSE seminar to fit with the curriculum established for your major. Academic advisors can help you develop an academic roadmap to help you succeed and graduate from the University.
Can I take more than one MUSE seminar?
No. MUSE seminars can only be taken in the first fall of enrollment during the freshman year. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. Take ONE while you can.
Do I get credit toward my General Education requirements for taking a MUSE seminar?
Yes, MUSE seminars satisfy General Education coursework in one of six areas: B1, B2, C1, C2, D1 or E.
Can I wait until spring semester to take a MUSE seminar?
No. MUSE seminars are only offered during the fall semester. Even though there are no MUSE seminars offered during the spring semester, the Peer Mentor Center is still open in the spring and offers some great programs.
Are all frosh students required to take a MUSE seminar?
No. Students are not required to take a MUSE seminar. Always discuss your plans with your academic advisor to make sure that you make the best choices for your academic success.
Is taking a MUSE seminar easier or harder than taking a regular GE class?
MUSE seminars are similar to other General Education courses in difficulty and the amount of work required. MUSE seminars are challenging and aim to teach students what it means to be a university scholar.
What is a MUSE workshop?
MUSE workshops go hand in hand with the MUSE seminars. All MUSE faculty will require students to attend at least two MUSE workshops. Workshops are open to ALL students, not just MUSE students. MUSE workshops touch on all aspects in the life of a college student, such as: finances, choosing a major, how to write a college-level paper, health and wellness, and alcohol awareness.
How do I register for a MUSE workshop?
MUSE workshops are open to ALL students; however MUSE students need to register for each workshop online. If you have difficulty with the on-line registration system, please contact first.year@sjsu.edu.
What is a PeerMentor ?
Peer Mentors are trained undergraduates who help first year students to succeed at SJSU. Peer Mentors are linked to and attend individual MUSE seminars. Peer Mentors serve as role models, help with MUSE workshops, and work in the MUSE classroom by facilitating discussions on academic coping skills (such as how to approach assignments and use technology) and other student concerns (such as parking, finding resources on campus, homesickness, and making friends). For more information visit the Peer Mentor Program on-line or at the Peer Mentor Center .
Where is the Peer Mentor Center ?
The Peer Mentor Center is located in Clark Hall 102 across from the help desk in the front of the Academic Success Center.
How can I become a PeerMentor ?
Peer Mentors are upper division students (sophomore standing and above) that are trained to work in the Peer Mentor Center and in MUSE seminars. Peer Mentors are paid positions on campus. You can apply to the Peer Mentor Program even if you never took a MUSE seminar. For more information about the application process, visit "Want to Become a Peer Mentor?"
Can I go to thePeer Mentor Center if I am not a MUSE student?
Yes. Just like MUSE workshops, the Peer Mentor Center is open to ALL students. You DO NOT have to be enrolled in the MUSE Program to enjoy the Peer Mentor Center and the services it offers.
What is the Humanities Honors Program?
The Humanities Honors Program in General Education is a four semester survey course in the Background of Western Culture and Society (HUM 1A/B) and Modern Cultural and Social Institutions (HUM 2A/B) in a format that emphasizes the interrelationship of art, literature, philosophy and social institutions. It is open to entering freshmen from all majors who meet the qualifications (3.0 GPA and 580 or above in the verbal portion of the SAT).
In addition to the 24 units of core General Education requirements, which the program satisfies, students also fulfill graduation requirements in American Institutions and California Government (6 units). In this way, students satisfy 30 units of General Education requirements while earning only 24 units in HUM 1A/B, 2A/B.
Can I do both MUSE and Humanities Honors?
Students can take a MUSE seminar while they are in the Humanities Honors Program. It is recommended that students who are in Humanities Honors take a MUSE Seminar in General Education Areas B1, B2, D1 or E unless one of your major pre-requisites falls in one of these areas.
I have more questions, who can I contact?
For any questions about the MUSE Program you can contact the office of the First Year Experience at (408)924-2707 or via email at first.year@sjsu.edu
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