Earth, Energy, and Environment - The Vasudha Living & Learning Community at Rensselaer
Vasudha is a new first-year living &
learning community at Rensselaer. Being a living and learning
community, students get a chance to study and live with other
students who share their interests in the Earth, its
environment, and our natural and energy resources. The students
who elect to participate in this program will be enrolled in a
common course (“IHSS-1970 Nature/Society”) during the Fall
semester, and will have subsequent opportunities to take other
classes focused on issues of energy, environment, the earth
sciences, and biodiversity. Similar to the other theme houses,
all members of Vasudha will live in a common residence hall—the
program is located in Nason Hall—with a dedicated lounge and
classroom. The signature themes of the program are a focus on
independent thought, critical thinking, and an early
introduction to undergraduate research experience.
We also view this as a program that can continue throughout a student’s period of study at, although the residential component is for the first year only. No commitment beyond the first year is necessary. All of the courses students take within the program are applicable towards graduation requirements, either as required courses or as free electives. All students in the program will be making normal progress towards their degree requirements.
If you’re interested, simply check off the “Earth, Energy, and Environment” theme housing option on your housing application form (this will be part of the You’re In website). We will be in touch. Or check out the Vasudha flyer Vasudha Spring 2009 and application form as well as the community’s own website for more information. The deadline for application is 15 May 2009. (Apply early, as we will be using rolling admissions into the program. Students who complete the application form will receive preference in admission to the Vasudha program.)
Prabhat Hajela