Curiosity as Compass

Course Description

“Once you open up that curiosity door, anything is possible” — Mr. Clark, Stranger Things

Curiosity is more than a spontaneous urge, it is a way of moving through the world, a habit of mind that deepens learning, strengthens relationships, and opens unexpected doors. This first-year seminar places curiosity at the center of the college experience, inviting students to develop and practice inquiry in increasingly expansive circles; from understanding themselves, to engaging with others, to exploring the larger questions that shape our world.

Through readings, discussions, guest speakers, research, and creative assignments, students will build the habits of reflection and relational learning that are foundational to a meaningful liberal arts and sciences education. Curiosity becomes a way of connecting personal experience to larger ideas, helping students move between everyday cultural moments and big intellectual questions. This is a course designed not to teach students what to think, but how to stay genuinely, productively curious about ideas, people, and about the kind of life they want to build.

Faculty Spotlight

Kate Johnson, Ed.D. – Senior Director, Student Engagement

Academic background

Dr. Kate Johnson is the Senior Director of Student Engagement with oversight of community engagement, orientation, and student support services for first-generation, veteran, and transfer students. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of New Hampshire, a Master’s of Science degree from Missouri State University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Appalachian State University. She has worked in higher education for twenty-five years in the functional areas of residential education, student conduct, community engagement, international and domestic service-learning, and student leadership and professional development. Kate’s teaching portfolio includes courses such as Social Issues and Social Change; Peer Leadership and Education; and A Glimpse of Culture and Issues, annual short-term study abroad courses.

What makes this course meaningful for students?

Learning becomes more engaging and lasting for students who ask questions and seek meaning. Curiosity is inextricably connected to brain development; activating reward systems like dopamine, encouraging exploration, and strengthening neural pathways. Curiosity fosters resilience and a growth mindset, helping students find purpose in their work, persist through challenges, and stretch themselves to try new things and meet new people. Ultimately, Dr. Johnson hope that by supporting students to cultivate curiosity, they feel empowered to take ownership of their paths while continuously expanding their knowledge, adaptability, and long-term personal and professional satisfaction.

Favorite spot in Asheville

Outside of work, Dr. Johnson enjoys walking her ancient pitbull and supporting local whenever possible. You can find her catching a concert at Asheville Yards or Grey Eagle, grabbing coffee at Penny Cup or High Five, and meeting friends for dinner at local restaurants like Asheville Pizza (you can catch a movie there as well!), Homegrown, Mountain Madre, and Nine Mile. There is so much to do and see in Asheville, she finds it hard to narrow down the list!