4 answers
Jane
Student
New Jersey, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
1214 views
What are the benefits to honors college programs?
I am committed to University of Delaware but I am not sure if I should enroll in the honors college. What are the pros/cons?
Login to comment
4 answers
Vimit Gupta
19
Answers
Updated
Vimit’s Answer
Honors college programs come with some pretty sweet perks!
Smaller Classes: You typically get to learn in smaller classes, which means more personal attention from professors and better class discussions.
Advanced Coursework: The classes are often more challenging and interesting, allowing you to dive deeper into subjects you love.
Networking: You’ll meet other motivated students and professors, which can lead to great friendships, mentorships, and connections for future opportunities.
Research Opportunities: Many honors programs offer chances to get involved in research projects, which looks great on your resume.
Special Resources: They often provide extra resources, like dedicated advisors, scholarships, and access to exclusive events.
Overall, honors colleges can give you a more engaged and enriching college experience!
Smaller Classes: You typically get to learn in smaller classes, which means more personal attention from professors and better class discussions.
Advanced Coursework: The classes are often more challenging and interesting, allowing you to dive deeper into subjects you love.
Networking: You’ll meet other motivated students and professors, which can lead to great friendships, mentorships, and connections for future opportunities.
Research Opportunities: Many honors programs offer chances to get involved in research projects, which looks great on your resume.
Special Resources: They often provide extra resources, like dedicated advisors, scholarships, and access to exclusive events.
Overall, honors colleges can give you a more engaged and enriching college experience!
Tate Osten
8
Answers
Updated
Tate’s Answer
Benefits often associated with the University of Delaware’s Honors College - and similar programs - include:
1) Smaller, more rigorous classes. Honors courses are typically capped at a lower enrollment, which often means more intimate, discussion-driven classes. Professors tend to be more involved, and the intellectual climate can be more engaging.
2) Priority registration. Honors students usually get early access to course registration, which can mean the difference between a thoughtful schedule and a patchwork of leftovers.
3) Dedicated housing (at least initially). Living with other honors students can be socially beneficial - especially if you're academically driven.
4) Access to honors advising and faculty mentorship. These programs often include more hands-on advising, with faculty who are trained to guide ambitious, curious students. You may find yourself with access to opportunities - research projects, internships, study abroad programs - that you wouldn't have otherwise known about.
5) Resume signaling and graduate school readiness. Being in the honors college won't magically get you into grad school or land you a job, but it signals seriousness and the ability to thrive in a demanding academic setting.
6) Capstone or thesis requirement. This is a double-edged sword. The experience of writing a thesis or completing a substantive project as an undergrad can be transformative. But it’s also a significant commitment, and one that should be entered into with open eyes. If you're curious, disciplined, and enjoy original work, it can be a highlight. If not, it may become a burden.
Drawbacks or things to consider:
Extra work, sometimes without extra reward; less flexibility in curriculum, not always socially aligned (honors housing and classes can unintentionally foster a kind of bubble), prestige is local, not universal (outside of the university, not everyone knows what an “honors college” even is).
1) Smaller, more rigorous classes. Honors courses are typically capped at a lower enrollment, which often means more intimate, discussion-driven classes. Professors tend to be more involved, and the intellectual climate can be more engaging.
2) Priority registration. Honors students usually get early access to course registration, which can mean the difference between a thoughtful schedule and a patchwork of leftovers.
3) Dedicated housing (at least initially). Living with other honors students can be socially beneficial - especially if you're academically driven.
4) Access to honors advising and faculty mentorship. These programs often include more hands-on advising, with faculty who are trained to guide ambitious, curious students. You may find yourself with access to opportunities - research projects, internships, study abroad programs - that you wouldn't have otherwise known about.
5) Resume signaling and graduate school readiness. Being in the honors college won't magically get you into grad school or land you a job, but it signals seriousness and the ability to thrive in a demanding academic setting.
6) Capstone or thesis requirement. This is a double-edged sword. The experience of writing a thesis or completing a substantive project as an undergrad can be transformative. But it’s also a significant commitment, and one that should be entered into with open eyes. If you're curious, disciplined, and enjoy original work, it can be a highlight. If not, it may become a burden.
Drawbacks or things to consider:
Extra work, sometimes without extra reward; less flexibility in curriculum, not always socially aligned (honors housing and classes can unintentionally foster a kind of bubble), prestige is local, not universal (outside of the university, not everyone knows what an “honors college” even is).
George Zou, M.S.
Academic Advisor
38
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
George’s Answer
Honors college programs are designed for students who excel in school. Many colleges and universities offer these programs to provide extra learning opportunities for those who want to be challenged and grow. Here are some benefits of joining an honors college program:
1. Smaller Classes
Honors programs often have smaller classes, allowing students to get more attention from teachers. This means they can ask more questions and participate in discussions, which helps them learn better.
2. Special Classes and Projects
Honors students can take unique classes not available to others, diving deeper into interesting topics. They might also work on research or projects that let them explore new ideas.
3. Better Learning Environment
Students in honors programs are surrounded by others who love learning. This can keep them motivated and working hard, plus they can make great friends with similar goals.
4. Priority Registration
Many honors programs offer priority registration, letting students choose their classes earlier. This helps them get the courses they need and create a better schedule.
5. Scholarships and Support
Some honors colleges provide scholarships or help students find financial aid. They also offer support with writing, studying, and applying for jobs or graduate school.
6. Looks Good on Resumes
Being in an honors program shows that a student is hardworking and committed to learning. This can be a big plus when applying for jobs, internships, or graduate school, helping them stand out.
1. Smaller Classes
Honors programs often have smaller classes, allowing students to get more attention from teachers. This means they can ask more questions and participate in discussions, which helps them learn better.
2. Special Classes and Projects
Honors students can take unique classes not available to others, diving deeper into interesting topics. They might also work on research or projects that let them explore new ideas.
3. Better Learning Environment
Students in honors programs are surrounded by others who love learning. This can keep them motivated and working hard, plus they can make great friends with similar goals.
4. Priority Registration
Many honors programs offer priority registration, letting students choose their classes earlier. This helps them get the courses they need and create a better schedule.
5. Scholarships and Support
Some honors colleges provide scholarships or help students find financial aid. They also offer support with writing, studying, and applying for jobs or graduate school.
6. Looks Good on Resumes
Being in an honors program shows that a student is hardworking and committed to learning. This can be a big plus when applying for jobs, internships, or graduate school, helping them stand out.
Keith Van Leeuwen
2
Answers
Haddon Heights, New Jersey
Updated
Keith’s Answer
Hi Jane, I went to UD, go Blue Hens! I opted not to do the honors program and I think that was a mistake. Once I got to school, I had many friends in the honors program and really think they provided some great extra perks. As a professional, I do not think that having the honors program on my resume has hurt my job opportunities. I would encourage you to do the honors program, at the very least you will be in a better dorm closer to campus then if you are not.