By: Piper Crabtree
As a senior in high school, I was given countless pieces of advice about preparing for the transition into college. People told me not to stress out, to focus on academics, and above all, to never skip class. These pieces of advice were echoed constantly throughout the year leading up to college; however, there was one crucial bit of wisdom missing from it all. “Join the Honors Program”.
The Honors Program at St. Norbert College is a unique experience that allows students of all years to challenge themselves. It encourages them to go beyond the bare minimum, participate in a discussion-based classroom environment, and be a part of a high-achieving intellectual community. The Honors Program also gives students access to honors-designated courses and global seminars, first-year honors living experiences, and preparation for post-graduate success.
I learned about the Honors Program through an email I received after applying to the college. Initially, I had no interest in applying to the Program. I was worried about whether I would be able to manage the higher-level coursework and if I would even like living in a dorm full of very intellectual students. How would I deal with the pressure? Would I spend too much time comparing myself to my other successful peers? What if I were overcommitting myself?
Eventually, after discussing my potential application with the music faculty, I was able to focus more on how the Honors Program could benefit me as a student instead of what it required. My professors talked to me about specific Honors-only music classes and Honors opportunities that even included studying abroad. After consideration, I sent in an application.
While the Honors Program might be more difficult than an average student’s experience, it is very rewarding and pays off. Not only will it leave you with a sense of accomplishment, but it will also grant you an advantage on campus when applying for scholarships, club leadership positions, on-campus jobs, community service opportunities, internships, as well as give you an advantage when applying for future jobs after college and graduate programs. While an honors student at St. Norbert, you will also gain access to priority registration for classes, allowing you to register among the first in your class.
First-year honors students are also invited to live in the same residence hall: Bergstrom Hall. This allows students not only to flourish together in the classroom, but also to build close relationships with peers, creating study groups and forming a positive environment that allows students to flourish.
My advice to anyone considering joining the Honors Program would be to apply. If accepted, you can make the decision to either accept or deny the invitation. In the words of one of my professors, “You can always drop out of the program if it’s not the right fit for you, but you only get one chance to join.” If you are even slightly curious about what the Honors Program could do for you, I urge you to take this small step towards what could redefine your entire future.
If you get accepted (congratulations) but are still hesitant about joining the program, there are many resources at your disposal to aid in your success. For example, the Honors Center in the Library is a great place to fuel up on snacks, talk with the friendly honors faculty, or utilize the conference room for all of your studying and meeting needs.
At first, I was worried if I would be able to handle the Honors Program, but now that I am a part of it, I know that if given the chance, I would apply again and encourage anyone attending SNC to do the same.
If you value a supportive community, a higher-level learning environment, and countless opportunities that will support your academic and personal growth, the Honors Program is for you. Just remember, don’t stress yourself out, get involved, and never skip class.
