Contact Information

Brianna Kirk
Coordinator of First Year Experience
New Student Programs
briannakirk@ccsu.edu
860.832.1233

Courses

First-Year Experience (FYE) Courses

The First-Year Experience (FYE) Courses at Central collectively constitute a comprehensive academic framework dedicated to supporting the success of all transitioning students.

First-Year Courses are designed to provide first-year students with the skills to be successful throughout their journey at Central. The core curriculum supports students in developing the following: understanding the academic options at Central, connection to the Central community, self-advocacy, and critical & creative thinking, as well as provide information, technology, financial and resource literacy. The curriculum prepares them for success in their personal, academic, and professional lives at Central and beyond. 

Types of Courses

We have 2 types of FYE courses here at Central. Each are built to support and guide students through their first year. You will work with your advisor during orientation to choose which course is the best option for you and your major. Each type of course is described below with what is being offered this Fall 2025! 

CCSU 102

CCSU 102 is a class designed to assist students in the transition from high school to college and allow them to explore and Identify skills through a themed educational opportunity. The class will allow students to reflect on on new topics, their own experiences, understand the university and its resources, explore their curiosity, embrace change and failure, and begin to pave a pathway to their future. 

Official Catalog Information for CCSU 102

CCSU 103

CCSU 103 is a class designed to assist students in the transition from high school to college and allow them to explore and Identify skills through career and educational exploration. An emphasis will be placed on exploring careers and associated majors across campus. The class will allow students to reflect on their own identity and experiences, understand the university and its resources, explore their curiosity, embrace change and failure, and begin to pave a pathway to their future. This course is designed for students who have not chosen their major. 

Official Catalog Information for CCSU 103

Fall 2026 Offerings!

  • Monday (10:50 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    17418College Reading & Study Skills Barbara A. Daly-ByrnesM 10:50 AM - 01:30 PMStudents’ reading is analyzed and training is provided to support comprehension strategies and study skills needed for success in college.
  • Monday/Wednesday (8:00 A.M. - 8:50 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    17059Blue Devils: Fantasy Football UniversityBrian MichaudMW 08:00 AM - 08:50 AMCountless students, faculty, and staff participate in fantasy sports, but not all of them are successful. The key to winning is to understand the ins and outs of your league, its rules and settings, and who you can count on from your team. Oddly enough, the same can be said about your college experience here at Central as it is important to know what resources you have available to you, who is here to help, and how to stay on the right path as you work toward winning each semester and ultimately graduating with your degree.
    16064Bleeding Blue and Dean's List TooShayne L. KoplowitzMW 08:00 AM - 08:50 AM

    "What does it truly mean to be a Blue Devil? This course is all about discovering your place at CCSU—both as an individual and as part of a thriving, spirited community.

    Through alumni panels, campus partner meetups, and engaging discussions, you’ll connect with fellow Blue Devils, past and present, to explore the traditions, values, and experiences that define CCSU. But it’s not just about school spirit—we’ll also dive into the best study strategies and learning techniques to help you succeed academically. This is more than just a class—it’s your launchpad for an incredible college experience. Get ready to embrace the Blue Devil spirit, unlock your potential, and make the most of your time at CCSU!"

    16057Once Upon a Time: Using Folklore and Fairy Tale to Navigate CollegeKelly L. JarvisMW 08:00 AM - 08:50 AMAlthough fairy tale and folklore is now considered a part of Children’s Literature, the early variants of many tale we now know and love were written with a Young Adult audience in mind. This course will look at fairy tales as narrative which help young adults navigate the gateway between adolescence and adulthood with a focus on defining boundaries in relationships, negotiating power and powerlessness, understanding the importance of critical inquiry, and embracing the power of storytelling. Tales will be studied as reflections of the cultures which circulate them and used as templates for writing our own stories.
  • Monday/Wednesday (9:25 A.M. - 10:15 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15376Critical Evaluation SkillsCraig GuildMW 09:25 AM - 10:15 AMEvery day, we are bombarded by messages in a variety of formats from many different sources. Not all messages are created equal. This course takes a deep dive into why and how mis- and disinformation has become so prevalent in society, and the importance of processing this information through a critical and equitable lens. Skills acquired in this course can be applied to academic, personal, and professional situations. In addition, the course is designed to assist incoming students in their transition to CCSU through guidance on effective study, critical thinking, communication, and information seeking skills; campus engagement; and overall well-being practices.
    15386Feast and fusion: Food as a language of cultureAlvin YuMW 09:25 AM - 10:15 AM

    "Have you ever thought about how a single dish can tell the story of an entire culture?

    Feast and Fusion takes you on a global culinary journey, using food and tourism to explore how what we eat shapes our identities, traditions, and communities. In this course, we will look far beyond food as just fuel to challenge the old adage, ""You are what you eat.""

    Through the lens of global cuisine, you will develop intercultural skills while mastering the ultimate college toolkit:

    Academic Skills: Critical analysis, research, and college writing.

    Life Skills: Time management and building meaningful campus connections.

    Get ready to explore the world—and set yourself up for college success—one bite at a time!"

  • Monday/Wednesday (10:50 A.M. - 11:40 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15380From Barbie to Breaking Bad: Pop Culture EconomicsSamantha M. SchenckMW 10:50 AM - 11:40 AMHave you ever wondered why characters in your favorite shows make the choices they do—or what those choices reveal about the real world? In this course, we’ll explore how TV and movies reflect the economic forces that shape our lives: scarcity, incentives, inequality, labor, and consumer culture. From The Office to Black Panther, and The Hunger Games to Barbie, we’ll use film and television to understand how economics explains everyday behavior and big social questions alike.
    15381PowerPoint to Presentation: Teaching and Engaging with Your AudienceSedina BegicMW 10:50 AM - 11:40 AMPowerPoint to Presentation: Teaching and Engaging with Your Audience introduces first-year students to the fundamentals of effective presentations. Students will learn how to design engaging PowerPoint presentations, organize and communicate ideas clearly, and deliver presentations with confidence. Through individual and group presentations, peer feedback, and hands-on practice, students will develop public speaking, teamwork, and audience engagement skills. Course topics allow students to explore areas of personal interest while building practical communication skills applicable to academic, professional, and everyday settings.
    17068Honors Foundations: Preparing for Success in the CCSU Honors Program Kristine LarsenMW 10:50 AM - 11:40 AMHonors Program Director (and Honors Program alum!) Dr. Kristine Larsen is your personal faculty guide to getting the most from your CCSU experience and excelling in the Honors Program. Meet fellow program students and learn how to navigate all of the resources CCSU has to offer. Open to students accepted into the Honors Program.
    17063Move to Thrive: Finding Your Routine, Releasing Your StressScott KazarMW 10:50 AM - 11:40 AM

    "Ready to beat college stress and boost your GPA? Move to Thrive is a hands-on wellness seminar that explores the powerful link between physical activity and academic success. Research shows that regular exercise sharpens concentration, cuts down stress, and improves grades.

    In this course, you will build sustainable habits for college and beyond through:

    -Guided Workouts: Structured fitness sessions tailored to all fitness levels—no experience required!

    -Success Strategies: Practical workshops on time management, motivation, goal setting, and    stress reduction.

    -Personal Planning: Reflective journaling and fitness planning to seamlessly build movement into your daily routine.

    Discover the science of wellness and practice integrating fitness into your life as a secret weapon for lifelong well-being and academic success!"

  • Monday/Wednesday (12:15 P.M. - 1:05 P.M)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15377 Journey to Success: Travel, Exploration and Well-Being in the First YearLisa Solari MW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMUsing my love for travel, this class will take students on a journey to explore academic skills, personal health, and strategies for succeeding in college. Using “journey” as a metaphor- students will start the semester by “boarding the plane,” they will then “map” out their college trip, learn about “pit stops and refueling” and ultimately prepare their return with recommendations upon finishing their first year “trip.” Throughout their journey they will learn how to overcome detours/roadblocks they might encounter, what resources are available in their new destination on campus, and how to navigate their time at CCSU. Potential topics will include: time management, study habits, stress reduction, campus resources/tour, healthy habits, and goal setting. 
    16055AAA Guide to Accessible, Achievable, and Affordable Study AbroadZongxiang MeiMW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMThis course is designed for first-year students with a range of perspectives on study abroad. Some may feel highly confident, some may think it’s out of reach, others may be unsure about timing, some may feel peer pressure without knowing if it’s the right fit, and others may worry it’s a unique opportunity they might not have again. Through a comprehensive approach to global learning, this course emphasizes accessibility, achievability, and affordability. Students will follow a step-by-step guide to explore diverse study abroad options, access valuable resources, and connect with peers with firsthand experience. The course includes practical applications of Intercultural Competence Theory (Deardorff), a scholarship essay workshop, and guidance in creating a personalized study abroad plan tailored to each student’s academic and career goals. The goal is not to convince students to study abroad but to empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to make informed decisions, broaden their horizons, and enrich their college experience.
    17200Career Exploration:Health and RehabGlorivee OrtizMW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like nursing, social work, and exercise education."

    17197Who are you?Sarah Horrax MW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMCollege is all about figuring out who you are now that you are gaining new experiences and challenging the status quo. What are your values? How do you personally navigate this world? How do you overcome the challenges of university life? The Who Are You? course also asks, who are we? - as a community. 
    15388Building Your Best College Life: Foundations for Personal, Academic, and Professional Growth    Maria I. SantilliMW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMThis course will focus on the value of building connections; connections with peers, connections to oneself and values, and connections across the campus community. Students will gain knowledge of and practice basic approaches to communication and expression. Challenging students to break outside their comfort zones, they will be assigned to reflect on the impact moments of connection have had on them. Likewise, students will look inward to learn what is most important to them and establish relationships with resources, professionals, opportunities, and strategies to find greater fulfillment in their college experience. Heavily utilizing topical group-conversation, writing & speaking reflection, icebreakers, and in-class group work, students will complete this course with a stronger sense of self, confidence in approaching new situations and individuals, and in its greatest success- a lasting connection with someone new.
    17058The First-Year Hotel: Checking In to College LifeTaylor Brown MW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMWelcome to your stay at the First-Year Hotel! This course will help new students “check in” to university life by exploring the rooms of academic success, personal growth, and community connection.
    18384Experiential Leardning in STEM Nick DelaneyMW 12:15 PM - 01:05 PM    Experiential Learning in STEM fields introduces students to the value of hands-on learning experience and their role in academic and professional development within STEM disciplines. Through a combination of classroom discourse, workshops, speakers, industry case studies and reflective activities, students will explore how experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research, service-learning and industry partnerships, enhance classroom learning and prepare them for successful transitions into the workforce. 
  • Monday/Wednesday (1:40 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    17067Honors Foundations Aimee Pozorski MW 01:40 PM - 02:30 PMDr. Aimee Pozorski is your personal faculty guide to getting the most from your CCSU experience and excelling in the Honors Program. Meet fellow program students and learn how to navigate all of the resources CCSU has to offer. Open to students accepted into the Honors Program.
  • Monday/Wednesday (3:05 P.M. - 3:55 P.M)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15387The Beats that Built UsCynthia Mena MW 03:05 PM - 03:55 PMIn this FYE course, students will explore the stories of growth and self-discovery that define both musical and personal growth. Through the journeys of influential artists like J. Cole, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Drake, and others, we’ll examine how Hip-Hop and R&B serve as powerful tools for storytelling, resilience, and transformation. Using music as our guide, we’ll reflect on identity, purpose, and motivation; learning how the creative processes behind the music & lyrics can inspire our own academic and personal success. Students will connect their experiences to themes in Hip-Hop and R&B culture, engage in meaningful dialogue about community and expression, and develop strategies for goal setting and self-empowerment. By the end of the course, we'll have created our own “flow”; a personalized rhythm for navigating college life, achieving our goals, and continuing the art of becoming our best selves.
    17065Puzzling Through Your First SemesterJamie Larkin MW 03:05 PM - 03:55 PMTransitioning to college can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle—each piece representing classes, responsibilities, and personal growth. This course is designed to help first-semester students navigate that process with confidence and curiosity. Through interactive activities, discussions, and problem-solving exercises, students will develop strategies for academic success, time management, and self-advocacy. The course also encourages reflection on personal goals, connection to campus resources, and building a supportive community. By the end of the semester, students will have assembled the essential pieces needed to create a strong foundation for their college journey.
    18114Curiosity, Creativity, Connections and Purpose: Foundations for SuccessDrew Harris MW 03:05 PM - 03:55 PMThrough experiential exercises, readings, videos and podcasts this class explores the importance of creativity as a foundation for learning, and connections – both personal and between ideas – as essential to getting the most of their college experience. Through developing these skills, students will have a foundation to identify and call upon their purpose in their college experience and beyond.
  • Monday/Wednesday (4:30 P.M. - 5:20 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15391 Clean Slate: Creating Your College IdentityMatt D. LandriganMW 04:30 PM - 05:20 PMIn this class, we will explore what it means to find your identity as a first year college student, and how to view the start of college as a “clean slate”.  We will do goal setting on a range of topics relevant to navigating your first year of college (i.e. adjusting to college studies, navigating a new social life/new friends/roommates, getting involved, and utilizing campus resources, career exploration, etc.).  The prime focus will be on starting fresh and finding your college identity.
    15389College & Career ReadinessMarvin G. WilsonMW 04:30 PM - 05:20 PMThis course is designed to help you build essential skills and strategies for success in both college and career pathways. Throughout the course, you’ll explore topics such as goal-setting, effective communication, time management, and career exploration. By the end, you’ll have a personalized toolkit that empowers you to thrive in college and pursue a fulfilling career. Whether you’re aiming to excel academically, prepare for internships, or develop long-term career plans, this course provides the foundation you need to succeed.
    15289Career Exploration: BusinessCristina A. ConteMW 04:30 PM - 05:20 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like accounting, management, business, finance, and marketing."

    17893College Reading & Study Skills Lynne A. DeVitoMW 04:30 PM - 05:20 PMStudents’ reading is analyzed and training is provided to support comprehension strategies and study skills needed for success in college.
  • Wednesday (1:40 P.M. - 3:20 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15290Career Exploration: SESTNick DelaneyW 01:40 PM - 03:20 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like biology, chemistry, construction management, earth and space science, and more."

  • Wednesday (3:05 P.M. - 4:45 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15287Career Exploration: CLASSLeah SkinnerW 03:05 PM - 04:45 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like english, psychology, criminology, art, theater, music, political science, and more."

    15382Cultural Variation Around the WorldJohn M. StavensW 03:05 PM - 04:45 PMThis course will explore material and non-material culture around the world. It will delve into the many different aspects of life that make up culture, including but not limited to art, music, language, and food. The many characteristics that make up culture will be examined and compared around the world to explore the diversity of the ways people live.
  • Tuesday (1:40 P.M. - 3:10 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    18116Career Exploration: BusinessAlana S. LedfordT 01:40 PM - 03:10 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like accounting, management, business, finance, and marketing."

  • Tuesday (3:05 P.M. - 4:45 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15396Career Exploration:ExploratoryCaroline MarquezT 03:05 PM - 04:45 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students who aren't quite sure what they want their major to be and would like to explore most!"

  • Tuesday/Thursday (8:25 A.M. - 9:15 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15379Exploring AI & SocietyRobert S. WolffTR 08:25 AM - 09:15 AMAre you curious to learn about the impact of Artificial Intelligence on society now and in the future? Do you enjoy courses taught from interdisciplinary perspectives? Are you ready to explore a variety of AI applications and tools, from conversational models like ChatGPT and Claude.ai to creative content generators like Adobe Firefly and DALL-E, and less well-known aids like Scite AI and Transkribus? This course tackles questions big (what does all of this mean for human society?) and small (what is the Turing test?). Please note we will use a Discord server as part of the class.
  • Tuesday/Thursday (9:25 A.M. - 10:15 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    17064Health in Action: Connecting Campus and Community Lisa McMahon TR 09:25 AM - 10:15 AMThis course will introduce students to the vital connection between health and wellness, academics, and community engagement. Through interactive discussions, service learning projects, and community partnerships and connections, students will learn how various health professionals work together to build stronger, healthier communities. Emphasis will be placed on teamwork, professionalism, critical thinking, and developing cultural competency related to healthcare. Students will have the opportunity to participate in community related wellness initiatives in Central's very own Community Health Education Clinic. This hands-on learning experience will help students explore different healthcare fields and develop compassion, communication, and collaboration. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of their role in promoting health equity, while developing a deeper connection to the surrounding community, at Central and beyond.
    15392My Words, My World.Alicia J. WaringTR 09:25 AM - 10:15 AMThis class aims to guide students in finding their voice as they transition into Central. Blending the power of spoken word poetry with essential first-year experience insights, this course offers a creative and dynamic space for students to reflect on their personal journeys. Through storytelling and self-expression, students will identify, discuss, and apply the transferable skills they’ve already developed in new and meaningful ways. This course will promote individuality, diversity, and inclusion as students relate to one another and build a community where every voice matters. 
  • Tuesday/Thursday (10:50 A.M. - 11:40 A.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    16062You Better Werk!: Exploring University Life Through the Art of DragAshley Green TR 10:50 AM - 11:40 AMThe art of drag involves an exaggerated performance of gender and has been around in a variety of forms for centuries. But what does it have to do with acclimating to university life? While it is often seen merely as entertainment, drag culture is also about learning to embrace your authentic self, engaging in self-expression, building confidence, and fostering a sense of community. This semester we will be learning about the history and cultural significance of drag, its importance to LGBTQ+ communities, and the ways in which drag has influenced mainstream popular culture. Additionally, we will be using this course to build our own campus community while learning to embrace our inner queens (and kings!) so that we can empower ourselves, find inner strength and creativity, and channel that confidence into academic success here at CCSU.
    17061Cultivating Connection Danni Emery TR 10:50 AM - 11:40 AMThis course will focus on the value of building connections; connections with peers, connections to oneself and values, and connections across the campus community. Students will gain knowledge of and practice basic approaches to communication and expression. Challenging students to break outside their comfort zones, they will be assigned to reflect on the impact moments of connection have had on them. Likewise, students will look inward to learn what is most important to them and establish relationships with resources, professionals, opportunities, and strategies to find greater fulfillment in their college experience. Heavily utilizing topical group-conversation, writing & speaking reflection, icebreakers, and in-class group work, students will complete this course with a stronger sense of self, confidence in approaching new situations and individuals, and in its greatest success- a lasting connection with someone new.
  • Tuesday/Thursday (12:15 P.M. - 1:05 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15291Career Exploration: SEPSNathan T. BergstromTR 12:15 PM - 01:05 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in either elementary or secondary education."

    15383Telling Your Story, Con Ganas!Inez M. VeraTR 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMThis first-year experience course is all about embracing life’s twists and turns with passion, resilience, and heart. You’ll explore how your personal journey—complete with the triumphs, challenges, and even failures—shapes who you are and where you're headed. Through interactive activities, creative expression, and powerful discussions, you’ll learn to own your narrative and tackle the future con ganas (with determination and drive). This is your chance to write the next chapter of your life, embracing every success and setback along the way. Let’s tell your story together—porque tú puedes! (because you can!)
    17198FYE for Stem StudentsJia Yeum TR 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMThis course gives an overview of the math and statistics classes at CCSU, especially for students interested in STEM. You'll explore what math courses your major might need, build a class roadmap, and learn how math connects to real careers. You’ll also get to meet faculty, work in groups to refresh basic math skills, and grow soft skills like public speaking and teamwork. The class also helps you manage your time, understand college expectations, and learn about helpful campus resources like the Learning Center, Career Development, and more.
    17076Honors Foundations: Preparing for Success in the CCSU Honors Program Pat FosterTR 12:15 PM - 01:05 PMDr. Pat Foster is your personal faculty guide to getting the most from your CCSU experience and excelling in the Honors Program. Meet fellow program students and learn how to navigate all of the resources CCSU has to offer. Open to students accepted into the Honors Program.
  • Tuesday/Thursday (1:40 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    16060Get Medieval Kate McGrath TR 01:40 PM - 02:30 PMThere are two contemporary, and often contradictory, narratives about the medieval period. In one, the Middle Ages stand in for everything backwards, dirty, violent, and ignorant -- the Dark Ages. In the other, the Middle Ages are a romantic world of knights in shining armor, opulent courts, and beautiful -- and beautifully costumed -- damsels. This course will examine where our ideas about the medieval period come from and how popular media continues to shape our perception of medieval history. 
    15390Creative Arts and the Sea.Susan H. McGuireTR 01:40 PM - 02:30 PMWhite sails cutting across an azure ocean, or a superstitious sailor’s imagination conjuring up images of mermaids and sea monsters, are all topics for artists to write, sing, dance, or paint. The ever-changing, and constant, nature of the oceans offers opposing perceptions of the sea as peaceful and calm in one instance, but dangerous and cruel in another. Creative Arts and the Sea is a two-credit course which explores the various ways the Sea is represented through Literature (Short Stories, Poetry and Plays), Music, Artwork, Dance and Film. While some earlier historical references of creative arts manifesting sea-imagery will be mentioned, mostly select arts/artists from 18th century through 21st century will be explored. Creative arts strategies are used to demonstrate artistic expressions, and students are encouraged to experiment with their own creativity based on themes of the sea.
    17201Career Exploration:ExploratoryLauren VeronneauTR 01:40 PM - 02:30 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students who aren't quite sure what they want their major to be and would like to explore most!"

  • Tuesday/Thursday (3:05 P.M. - 3:55 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    16065Leading into the FutureScott Z. HazanTR 03:05 PM - 03:55 PM"This First-Year Experience (FYE) class at CCSU is designed to foster self-awareness and leadership development in students. By exploring their personal values, strengths, and leadership styles, students will gain the confidence and skills needed to lead with purpose. The course emphasizes ethical decision-making, effective communication, and understanding group dynamics—core components of strong leadership. Through guided reflection and practical experiences, students will be equipped to
    step into leadership roles and influence positive change within any setting"
  • Tuesday/Thursday (3:30 P.M. - 4:55 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    17891College Reading & Study Skills Elisabeth G. PetersonTR 03:30 PM - 04:55 PMStudents’ reading is analyzed and training is provided to support comprehension strategies and study skills needed for success in college.
  • Tuesday/Thursday (4:30 P.M. - 5:20 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    15385Leveling Up: How Video Games and Esports can Guide you Through CollegeNicholas StreifelTR 04:30 PM - 05:20 PMVideo games and Esports have become a ubiquitous part of life for many of us. While many refer to playing games as a "waste of time", the act of gaming has been secretly teaching you dozens of skills. This class will relate the process of learning a new video game to the process of adapting to college life and beyond. Just like how games have tutorials, game mechanics, and a skill ceiling, your professional development can be viewed in the same way. Divided into three distinct parts, students will be able to learn about campus resources, acquire knowledge to better manage themselves, and understand the science behind learning how to improve. 
    16058Capture Your College Journey: Photography for Wellness and Self-DiscoveryCheryl L. EdwardsTR 04:30 PM - 05:20 PM

    📸 Capture Your College Journey: Photography for Wellness and Self-Discovery 🌟

    Dive into your first year with a unique experience that goes beyond the classroom! This isn't just a photography course—it's your toolkit for a successful college transition, a creative outlet, and a journey into self-discovery.
    Using the powerful medium of photography, you'll learn to see the world (and yourself!) differently. We'll move past simple snapshots and into mindful observation, helping you focus, de-stress, and truly appreciate your new college environment.

    What You'll Gain:

    • Mindful Living: Discover photographic principles that double as techniques for calm, clarity, and focus.
    • College Success: Explore essential topics for physical, emotional, social, and intellectual wellness, equipping you to thrive.
    • Creative Confidence: Master basic photo skills while expressing your unique perspective on college life.
    • Zero Stress: No fancy gear needed! Your smartphone or any digital camera is all you need to start creating.

    Ready to capture your best college life? Sign up and transform your phone into a tool for creativity, wellness, and a confident start!

    17196Mindset Matters: Shaping a Growth Mindset for Academic SuccessJessica ChambleTR 04:30 PM - 05:20 PMThis course will provide students with strategies for strengthening their growth mindset. The curriculum will apply concepts from positive psychology and cognitive behavior models to help students shift from a fixed to a growth mindset and realize the power of positive thinking. Through the course, students will develop a “toolkit” of techniques for improved emotional and academic self-management. Topics include reframing strategies, self-motivation, building confidence, minimizing negative self-talk, mental filtration (identifying and challenging these negative thoughts), time and energy management, emotional regulation, and self-care practices to prevent burnout. By the end of the course students will feel equipped to use mindset strategies that promote academic success and overall wellbeing.  
    15826Career Exploration: BusinessMonica RiveraTR 04:30 PM - 05:20 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like accounting, management, business, finance, and marketing."

    18117Career Exploration: BusinessJennifer Lentino TR 04:30 PM - 05:20 PM

    "College is more than just classes—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and possibility. CCSU 103 is designed to help students successfully transition from high school to college while exploring potential career paths and academic interests.
    Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and guided reflection, students will:
    ✅ Identify their strengths, skills, and passions
    ✅ Explore diverse majors and career opportunities
    ✅ Navigate university resources for success
    ✅ Embrace curiosity, change, and even failure as part of growth
    Perfect for students who haven't chosen a major, this course provides a supportive space to chart a personalized path toward an exciting future—both in college and beyond.

    For students interested in majors like accounting, management, business, finance, and marketing."

  • Friday (9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.)

    CRNTitleInstructorTimeDescription
    18169Step Into Success: Discovering Growth on Connecticut TrailsChristine Benz F 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    As you start your journey at CCSU, this course helps you find your footing—on campus, in nature, and in yourself. This course invites you to step outside the classroom and onto the trail, where time in nature helps you build resilience, gain confidence in new settings, and grow as a leader, teammate, and individual. Through beautiful hikes near campus, you’ll discover how the challenges and rewards of hiking mirror the college experience itself.

    You’ll explore:

    • How to plan and prepare for success - both on the trail and in life
    • How teamwork, communication, and resilience help you overcome obstacles
    • How to find joy in the journey, celebrate progress, and connect with your community and environment

    This is more than a first-year course - it’s an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and build lifelong skills while discovering the beauty of Connecticut. Because growth doesn’t just happen in the classroom - it happens when you take the next step forward.

    Please note for this course