The University will soon unveil Vision Louisiana, a new residential college for students with a special interest in affecting the future of Louisiana.
“Vision Louisiana will provide students with the opportunity to make a difference and improve Louisiana,” Residential Life Communications Manager Mimi La Valle said.
The Residential Life Web site said students in this program will apply the material covered in core courses to solve problems facing the state and its citizens.
According to the site, Vision Louisiana is a four-year program open to students of all majors.
La Valle said presently this residential college is being marketed for incoming freshmen, and describes the residential college experience as a way for incoming students to become more integrated and acclimated to college life.
Terria Hutchinson, a sociology sophomore, is a current resident of Acadian Hall.
“I think it’s not uncommon for incoming freshmen to feel like they are not important or do not have voice on campus,” she said. “This program gives these students a strong voice and shows them they can make a difference not just campus-wide, but statewide.”
La Valle said one of the benefits of enrolling in a residential college is that students receive a little more faculty involvement and more of a focus.
“Since students are both living together and enrolled in some of the same classes, it’s easier for them to make friends and form study groups,” she said. “Residential colleges aid in easing a student’s transition from high school to college.”
Students enrolled in this program will reside in Acadian Hall for at least two years.
“Vision Louisiana is a residential college that promotes leadership, teamwork and academic success through programming in the residence hall,” the page said.
To apply for Vision Louisiana, students must indicate Acadian Hall on their housing application.
“During [the students’] last two years in the program [they] will be a member of an interdisciplinary team to conduct research and present theses, business plans or design projects aimed at smart growth in Louisiana,” the Web site said.
The Web site also outlines admission criteria.
“Admission to the program is based ACT/SAT score, high school GPA, leadership and service activities and a personal statement,” it said. “Admitted students are expected to have a minimum ACT score of 24 (or SAT equivalent) and a minimum 3.0 GPA.”
La Valle said students enrolled in the Vision LA program earn both college credit and real world experience.