“If you are intellectually curious, like to talk with other students who are too, and want to be a part of something distinctive,” reads an email to freshmen, “this might be the program for you.”
For students with strong academic performance and the desire to delve deeper into critical, contemporary issues, the college launched CAS Inquire, an interdisciplinary program built around a college-wide series of public lectures that serve as a focal point for discussion. Freshmen apply or are nominated by a faculty member, and once accepted, they begin the program their sophomore year.
CAS Inquire students take a one-credit class built around each lecture they attend and discuss the topic with the speaker.
“I love being surrounded by people who are similarly interested in learning and asking questions. I feel like this program offers us all tools and opportunities to succeed, which is very helpful, because UNL is large and making connections can be daunting,” said Aleksandr Duncan, a psychology and sociology major in the program.
As juniors, students take the mini-course “Inquire Inspires” where they learn how to lead a discussion, obtain career-seeking skills, and reflect on interdisciplinary experiences to open doors to opportunities. They then contribute to the program as a discussion leader or planning committee member. Dinner with the dean and a student-invited faculty guest completes their junior year. Seniors take the mini-course “Whole-life Living,” where they talk to local civic organizations about finding their place in the community, and continue to serve as a discussion leader or planning committee member. Upon completing the program, students are recognized at a celebratory brunch with their family and faculty.
Members also benefit from a thesis-writing group to develop distinction projects and financial support for a national conference or education abroad experience.
“Our intent is to strengthen each student’s appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature and value of a liberal arts education and their connection with the college,” said Dean Mark Button.
The inaugural theme “The Rise of the Machines” was covered in five lectures on British novels, drones, genetics, nanoscience and algorithmic biases. All will come together for an interdisciplinary panel discussion in March.
