ED 20: University Success Course

The Office of First-Year Programs sponsors the University Success Course for first- and second-year students. Now in its third decade, this course has become a model for introductory courses across the country. The course consists of ten lectures and ten in-depth discussions co-facilitated by UCSB staff and undergraduate students. Take this course to learn how to make the most of your entire experience, to make new friends, and to gain confidence in your ability to successfully navigate the academic, personal and social challenges of college life.

Topics are not limited to the relationship between a theory-based education and future career options, critical thinking and analytical writing skills, the diverse campus community, getting involved, relationships and sexuality, and leadership development. Contemporary issues that affect current students at UCSB are also studied.

Past students have said:

• "ED 20 brings you a lot of realizations about yourself and the university. It's fun and all freshmen should be required to take this class."
• "ED 20 taught me so much about my environment, my peers, and myself. It changed me. I'm not a different person, just a better person—more developed."
• "ED 20 is a really interesting course. You leave with a sense of knowing who you are and where you want to go. There is so much information that is relevant to underclassmen."

Research shows that students who complete ED 20 experience the following benefits:

• increased academic performance and retention
• increased involvement in campus leadership opportunities
• increased engagement with faculty
• increased sense of belonging and social satisfaction

ED 20 is a 3.0 unit course that also fulfills one GE writing requirement (*). This course is taught by Dr. Britt Andreatta. Freshmen can enroll through GOLD and sophomores can request an add code from the instructor.