DBSP 101. Academic and Leadership Seminar I (2Su)
This course examines the transition to the honors college through critical study on academic culture, liberal arts education, regional history, theories of ethnic identity development, critical and creative thinking and a review of study skills and campus resources. Each student participates in an approved diversity experience.
DBSP 102. Academic and Leadership Seminar II (2S)
This course explores the nature of leadership, styles of leadership and how leadership and power intersect with each other and with service. Each student participates in a service project during the semester and presents their findings to the St. Mary’s College community at the end of the semester. Participation on DBSP 101 is preferred but not required.
DBSP 301. DeSousa-Brent Mentor (2F)
This course is designed for two students for each section of DBSP 101. Students serve as mentors and learning assistants for both the summer program and the fall seminar. They act as role models for scholars and serve as resource persons both in and out of class. Specifically, DeSousa-Brent Mentors assist with adjustment issues to college and to college-level work. They will assist with individual conferencing, provide guidance for presentations and diversity projects, read the seminar course material, read articles on teaching first-year students, and maintain journals throughout the semester. A reflection paper on the experiences with the course, the concepts of teaching and learning in relation to their role and the benefits of the seminar to students will serve as the culminating project. Prerequisites: DBSP 101, DBSP 102, and successful completion of the application process.
DBSP 302. DeSousa-Brent Mentor (2S)
This course is designed for two students for each section of DBSP 102. Students serve as mentors and learning assistants for the spring seminar. They act as role models and serve as a resource persons both in and out of class. Specifically, DeSousa-Brent Mentors continue to monitor the academic progress of students in their section. They assist with conferencing, plan and participate in program activities, coordinate panelists for panel discussions, design a service project for the course or approve individual service projects, read course material, and maintain journals throughout the semester. A reflection paper on what they have learned about leadership (including leadership of their peers), their experiences of and beliefs concerning intersections of leadership, power and service. Prerequisites: DBSP 101, DBSP 102 and successful completion of the application process.