Learning Communities > Frequently Asked Questions

How was I selected for a Learning Community?
Because of the rich learning experience and benefits for students in Academic Learning Communities, your academic department has decided to enroll ALL of the first-year students in a learning community.
For the Living Learning Communities, students are required to apply through their housing application. The LC administrators then review the applications and choose students who are committed to the experience.

What are the benefits of being a part of the Learning Community?
Learning Communities provide an immediate social and academic network which will help you form study groups and friendships. You will find that you are able to develop relationships with faculty and staff that could lead to research opportunities and letters of recommendation later on in your career.

Will I have to do more work if I'm in a Learning Community?
Learning Communities don’t mean more work for students, but they are a commitment. Academic Learning Communities enable students to be enrolled in smaller classes and work together with peers and faculty in a collaborative and supportive way. There is also a project required for each of the Living Learning Communities that is managed through the class.

Are there increased costs associated with Learning Communities?
No.

How long will I be in a Learning Community?
At least for fall quarter for Academic Learning Communities. The Living learning Communities last all year.

Will I live with people from my Learning Community?
Not for the Academic Learning Communities. You may find that there are people from your Learning Community on your floor or in your building but you do not all live together on the same floor. Your residential experience is a great opportunity for you to meet people outside of your learning community.
For the Living Learning Communities, living together is an essential component to the activities. However, the floor will be interspersed with non-LLC students as well.

How do I enroll myself in the correct classes? Your department advisor will take care of registering you in all of your classes for fall quarter. Your advisor will continue to assist you throughout the year.

What courses will I take with my Learning Community?
In the fall term, students in academic learning communities take the First Year Experience “Discovery” course and a second course selected by the department. This second course is typically within the academic program or a foundational course for the program.
Each Living Learning Community is different, see their descriptions for specifics.

Will a Learning Community prevent me from meeting other students?
No! You will still be enrolled in courses outside of your learning community which will give you many opportunities to meet and interact with students from other programs and colleges. Plus, you will meet students in the residence halls and through participation in clubs, intramurals, and other events on campus throughout the year. Your learning community will build a strong foundation for you that will positively affect your entire RIT experience.

What if I don't like the other members of my Learning Community?
Successful communities do not depend on everybody liking each other. What makes the community work are shared goals, familiarity, and mutual respect. That being said, many students make friends in their leaning community that last throughout their time at RIT and will often be roommates or select more courses to take together later on in their RIT career.