The Science and Practice of Learning and Thriving in College

Course Description

We live and learn within environments that shape how we think, feel, and perform, yet most of us rarely stop to examine the cognitive and psychological processes behind that experience. This first-year seminar invites students to explore the current science of how people learn and how emotional intelligence helps us cope with challenge, and through that lens, develop the practical skills and strategies needed to manage stress, enhance learning, and thrive across different courses, environments, and college experiences.

Through case studies, discussions, and hands-on practice, students will evaluate and personalize approaches to learning that work best for them, culminating in a personal plan for learning and thriving they can adapt for future experiences. Course experiences also create opportunities to become active members of the campus community by developing personal goals, acknowledging student responsibilities, and engaging with the resources available to support a fulfilling college experience.

Faculty Spotlight

Jason Schmeltzer, Ph.D. – Senior Lecturer, Chemistry

Academic background

Dr. Jason Schmeltzer is a Senior Lecturer of Chemistry at UNC Asheville. He holds a B.S. in chemistry from Case Western Reserve University, and a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from Purdue University. Dr. Schmeltzer teaches lecture and laboratory courses in general chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and quantitative analysis. He has also taught for the Education Department (scientific teaching methods) and for the Humanities program (medieval and Renaissance periods).

What makes this course meaningful for students?

Dr. Schmeltzer teaches this course because he believes it is important that students should not learn just knowledge and skills in their other courses – but also how they learn those knowledge and skills, what they can do to improve their learning, and what first steps they can take to achieve those improvements. He hopes students gain realization and confidence in their ability to learn, and also will apply these things toward developing a plan for success at UNC Asheville – both academically and extracurricularly.

Favorite spot in Asheville

Dr. Schmeltzer enjoys long hikes in the mountains and forests surrounding Asheville. One of his favorite spots is the Laurel River Trail near Hot Springs, NC – a whitewater riverside hike to the old mill town of Runion. The gentle walk, rushing water, and old stone building traces are simultaneously calming and exciting.