Record enrollment in honors program

September 26, 2024

Dakota State University hasn't just set records in program enrollment, but also in the General Beadle Honors Program.

This fall, 67 incoming freshmen have joined the honors program, the largest incoming class so far.

"It's very gratifying to see such a large number of students want to seek out this kind of challenge and intellectualism," said Dr. Kurt Kemper, professor and director of the General Beadle Honors Program.

Students in the program will participate in honors-only general education classes, complete senior-level research and a thesis, all while engaging in experiential learning and building a community of intellectually curious lifelong learners.

In addition to being the largest incoming class, this is the largest number of incoming international students, with 27 joining the program this year.

Kemper believes the large cohort of international students is due to a few reasons. It helps them with the visa approval process, it provides them with opportunities to be involved in activities off-campus, and it allows them to develop an on-campus community with whom they can share experiences.

"It's exciting that students have responded to the program in this positive fashion, and it tells us that we're doing something that the students find valuable and appealing," he said.

Participants major in a wide range of programs of study, and enjoy smaller class sizes in honors-only classes that feature heavy student participation and engagement. They also receive honors-specific advising, honors-specific housing, and take part in funded research and travel experiences. The program is a campus-wide effort that requires a certain synergy, Kemper explained.

"The success of the honors program requires multiple visions of campus, with advising, res life, recruitment, admissions, and honors," he said.

Kemper is looking forward to another exciting year of educating honors students.

"I enjoy being challenged by student responses and inquiries," he said. "The honors students never bore me."

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