The Science and Practice of Learning and Thriving in College – Engineering

Course Description

Have you ever wondered how people learn? And how you apply that learning to new problems in a challenging environment? This course explores the current cognitive and psychological science of how people learn and how people cope with challenges through their emotional intelligence, and puts that knowledge directly into practice.

Students will experiment with different skills and strategies to enhance their own learning and manage the stress and challenges of college life, discovering what works best for them across different types of courses, learning environments, and college experiences. By the end of the course, students will integrate these strategies into a personal plan for learning and thriving; one they can use and adapt well beyond their first year. Course experiences also include activities designed to help students become active members of the campus community, develop personal goals, and connect with the resources available to them at UNC Asheville.

Faculty Spotlight

Brittanie Jones – Assistant Director of Advising Student Support, Academic Advising

Academic background

Brittanie Jones earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and later completed a Master’s degree in Higher Education. Throughout her academic journey, she built a strong foundation in communication, student development, and an understanding of the systems that support student success.

What makes this course meaningful for students?

Jones is particularly excited about teaching this course because of the meaningful impact her own first-year seminar had on her academic and personal growth. That experience helped her build confidence, develop essential skills, and feel connected to campus—an outcome she hopes to create for students. She really enjoys watching students grow and evolve over time, both academically and personally. Her goal is to create a space where students feel supported, challenged, and confident in navigating their college experience.

Favorite spot in Asheville

Outside of work, Jones is all about the dessert spots. Hole Doughnuts or Sweets and Seats are her two favorites in Asheville.

Faculty Spotlight

Zach Friesen – Associate Director of Admission

Academic background

Zach Friesen graduated from University of North Carolina at Asheville in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and later completed a Master’s degree in Higher Education from Appalachian State University in 2023. Since 2021, he has worked in the Office of Admission, where he has supported and guided new students as they transition into the university.

What makes this course meaningful for students?

Friesen views teaching this course as a natural extension of his work in helping students acclimate to and succeed on campus. He emphasizes the importance of students not only identifying the variety of resources available at UNC Asheville but also understanding the factors that contribute to meaningful academic and personal growth.

Favorite spot in Asheville

Friesen’s favorite spot is anywhere in the countless rivers and streams of Western North Carolina. Fly fishing is a huge part of his life and allows him to immerse himself in the environment around Asheville. Whether it’s trout, salamanders, snakes, or any other critters, he’ll take any chance he can to see them in their natural habitat.