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University 101, the popular program launched last spring for students facing barriers to post-secondary education, is back again this fall. The 10-week course offered at UVic’s downtown campus was created by the faculty of humanities, and is taught entirely by volunteer faculty members.
“The success of this program is in creating a space that encourages people to be excited about learning,” says Becky Cory, University 101 coordinator. “The faculty volunteers, those behind the scenes, and the students themselves create an environment that is very respectful and empowering.”
Topics on the syllabus for the fall semester include classes on critical thinking, Canadian poetry, B.C. indigenous issues, and Hitler and the Holocaust. The program provides students with a warm meal, bus tickets, course material and childcare. Students also receive a UVic student card and have access to the university library. Last spring, 25 students attended the classes, and organizers are expecting similar numbers this time around.
“These people are coming because they have a passion for learning but haven’t had a chance to be in a space where they can exercise that passion,” says Cory. “We aren’t measuring our success by the number of people who go on to sign up for full-time courses at UVic, although many have applied. It’s about making links between the students, the university and the wider Victoria community.”
In spring 2007, the program will expand to offer courses from the faculty of social sciences.
University 101 is funded by UVic and through fundraising. There are many ways to volunteer with the program, as an instructor, or sitting on the steering committee. To volunteer or make a donation, contact Becky Cory at 361-7014 or uni101@uvic.ca. Charitable tax receipts are available.
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