As the twentieth century draws to a close, it is not so clear what it means to be "educated." To some, it means being trained for an occupation. To us, it implies something more--the transformation of a person which enables and inspires a lifelong search for meaning, knowledge, connection, and truth, however defined. If you will allow it, the journey on which you now embark will enrich your life in many ways and, by your participation in this community of scholars, you will enrich ours in equal measure.
You can measure the investment in your education by a metric of time spent, counting the hours in class and out until you have accumulated the number of units required for graduation. But in doing so you would miss an important point: your education is a gift--to yourself.
Make the most of this treasure, taking advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. Engage in every class discussion; pay close attention even when you are tired or bored; make time to attend an art exhibit, a performance of theater, music, dance, or poetry; join a student club; listen to a debate; take a moment to discuss an interesting idea with your colleagues; get to know your professors. Each act, each moment invested, will repay you a thousand times over.
We are here to serve you, assist you, teach you, and learn from you. It is an honor and a privilege which we all share. I welcome you to this great university with assurance that its gifts are many and manifest--you need only to look and listen and learn. Commit, benefit, and grow. This will always be your home.
Susan H. Taylor
The undergraduate experience is divided into components which are aimed at educating the whole person--a person who is capable of making a sustained contribution as a participant to the betterment of the community, the state, the nation, and the world.
Some majors are identified as impacted, or high demand, majors. Generally, more students than can be accommodated have selected these areas of study as their majors. Most impacted majors include supplemental admission requirements. When declaring a major, be sure to determine whether or not there are special requirements to enter that major. Such majors require that students meet specific prerequisites before gaining admission.
Students may also elect to study a minor. A minor, like a major, is a focused area of study. However, a minor does not require as many units as does a major. There are 85 minors at SFSU. A minor is not required to earn a bachelor's degree.
Students who are undecided about their major may identify themselves as undeclared. Being undeclared provides the student the opportunity to explore a variety of courses in different areas of interest. Typically, students declare their major during their sophomore or junior year after completing most of their lower division General Education requirements.
Students interested in pursuing a teaching credential after completing the baccalaureate degree may take preparatory course work as an undergraduate student.
Course work is also available to students who are interested in pursuing professional school studies after the baccalaureate degree. For example, preparatory course work can be taken for admission to law school, medical school, and dental school as well as other professional programs. In many cases, special advisers are available to assist students to prepare for professional study.
For information and referral, visit the Advising Center (ADM 212, 338-2101).