First Year Seminar in Political Science

FYSM 1100.08

Learning Objectives• To introduce you to the political science major

– students should have a better of understanding of the degree requirements of the political science major

– students will have interactions with political science faculty and students

• To help answer the question “what can I do with a political science degree”– students will be introduced to members of the community who used their

political science backgrounds to achieve success in the professional world

• To Help you stay in college – students will become familiar with educational opportunities available at St.

Edward's University.

People and Office Hours

• Brian William Smith– Associate Dean of the

School of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Political Science Professor.

– Arrived at SEU in 2003

– Office is in Doyle 226

• Maribel Tostado, MLA– Advisor for APSS (the

best one)

– Instructor in Cultural Foundations

– Arrived at SEU in 2004

– Office is in Moody

Peer Mentors

– Kasey Sanchez (FYSM ‘10)• ksanche5@stedwards.edu

– Octavio Sanchez (FYSM ‘10)• osanche2@stedwards.edu

Ask them for help, but…Don’t ask them to do evil for you!

Grading

• Attendance and participation– The Big one (50%) of your grade.

– You will lose 1 letter grade beyond the first 3 absences.

– Most of what we do, happens in class

Gradings

• Meetings– One informational interview with Dr. Smith (15%)

– One meeting with the Peer Mentors (5%)

– Two meetings with Maribel Tostado (30%)

Electronic Device Policy

• The use of cell phones, smart phones, or other mobile communication devices is disruptive, and is therefore prohibited during class. Except in emergencies, those using such devices must leave the classroom for the remainder of the class period.

About the class

• This class is designed to be low stress and for you to do well

• This class can be the difference between making the Dean’s list or not – (6.25% of your Fall Grade Point Average)

• This class will enable you to schedule earlier than some of your peers– E.g. 16 vs 15 credits