Appalachian’s new Freshman Seminar course (US 1150) introduces students to the rigor of academic study at the University level through interdisciplinary engagement with a variety of disciplines and perspectives, the foundation of the university’s new General Education program.  These small seminar-style classes are taught by experienced faculty who are committed to helping freshmen make the transition from high school to college by developing creative and critical thinking abilities, cultivating effective communication skills, and introducing students to a variety of research tools and methods.  Freshman Seminar also provides students the opportunity to make connections with faculty and other students, to discover the wide range of resources Appalachian provides its students, and to become part of the university and local community.  Students who take the Freshman Seminar (US 1150) will also have the opportunity to switch to the new General Education program when it is fully implemented in the fall of 2009.