Honors Discovery Seminars: A Chat with Senior Assistant Dean Dominick Usher

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Dominick Usher, Senior Assistant Dean at Commonwealth Honors College

As the autumn really takes hold and the air gets crisp, students know that course selection will soon be upon them. Honors students have the opportunity to take an Honors Discovery Seminar, a one-credit course exploring an eclectic variety of topics!

I recently sat down with Dominick Usher, Senior Assistant Dean at Commonwealth Honors College, and discussed the importance of these courses in the Honors curriculum. Here's what he had to say.

“These seminars are designed to give students an introduction to research experiences. Each seminar involves some level of research or methodologies that are helpful for students preparing for their thesis.”

Usher noted that these courses are structured in the same way a thesis might be, which includes engaged research on a specific topic. Ideally, students are exposed to some of the more daunting aspects of the thesis process, such as a literature review, in order to further develop their skills for the thesis. He also stated that the academic advisors and the team at CHC built the Discovery Seminars as useful tools for students who may not be exposed to some of these methods in their majors.

Photo: Eva Trainer

To students who may be interested in taking a Discovery Seminar next semester, Usher offered one critical piece of advice: be interested in the topic. He argued that interest is the most essential aspect of a course in order to remain engaged and see it through. This advice, Usher stated, is not only applicable to the seminar but also to their Honors Thesis.

“I think the most successful path—whether it be for this seminar or for a student's Thesis — is to ask yourself, 'What would I do if this wasn't a requirement at all?' What would you choose because you’re genuinely interested in it?”

Usher also noted that faculty love teaching these courses. Many of the instructors cherish the intimate setting with students who engage with these topics in a deep way. He pointed out that the content of these courses is a reflection of the faculty's passions and the value of the time they get to discuss these topics with students.

Don’t miss out on the exciting courses available! Visit the Honors Discover Seminars page to explore your options and take the first step toward enriching your academic journey!