What is the Common Reading Experience?
Synergy: UNCW's Common Reading Experience is a campus-wide, freshman-focused reading program. Students, faculty, and staff read the same book and participate in discussions and activities in the classroom and on campus.
Synergy supports the university mission of integration of teaching, research, and service and the stimulation of intellectual curiosity, imagination, critical thinking, and thoughtful expression. The program supports Goal #1 of UNCW's Strategic Plan: Create the most powerful learning experience possible for our students.
Why should I participate?The Common Reading Experience provides:
- an introduction to (or reinforcement of) academic expectations and intellectual engagement
- a common experience with peers, faculty, and staff
- an opportunity for self-reflection and critical thinking
- a great way to get involved in and out of the classroom
- a meaningful, powerful, and FUN learning experience
How will the book be used?
During the Fall, the book is a required text in Freshman Seminar and various courses as determined by faculty. There will be events including films and performances, a lecture series, discussion groups, and much more. Click here for the event schedule.
Is participation required?
Freshmen are strongly encouraged to read the chosen novel over the summer and participate in the program, but participation in not necessarily "required." The main class that the book will be incorporated into is Freshman Seminar, which is an elective. Other faculty in various disciplines may require the book in their courses. The events on campus are optional, except for Freshmen Seminar.
How do I get a copy of the book?
Freshmen will receive complimentary copies at Orientation to read before the Fall. Students attending the August Orientation will receive books via mail mid-July. A limited number of complimentary copies will be available for other students at Common Reading events. The book will be available for purchase at the UNCW Bookstore and is available at your local bookstore.
What if I need an alternate format due to a documented disability?
Contact Peggy Turner, Disability Services, at 910-962-7555 and provide required documentation. No alternate format copies will be supplied without proper documentation.
I am a new student at UNCW. What should I do before I arrive on campus?
There is no formal assignment to bring with you in August. However, as you read, THINK deeply about the issues and themes in the novel, REFLECT on your personal connections to and thoughts about the novel, and PREPARE to discuss the novel with other students and faculty.
How are books selected?
Recommendations are solicited year-round from faculty, staff, and students. Recommendations are reviewed by a committee made-up of UNCW faculty, staff, and students, and once the book list is narrowed down, several student readers read the finalists. Books are evaluated and reviewed based on the Synergy selection criteria.
How can I recommend a book?
Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to submit recommendations for future selections. To submit an online recommendation, click here.
How can I learn more about the book or author?
This website contains numerous resources and links on the novel and the author. A printable reading guide is also available.
How can I get more information on the program and/or book?
Search this website or contact Jenny Adams, University College (910-962-3245 or adamsjb@uncw.edu).
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