So what is IFS? IFS stands for Intensive Freshman Seminars, a two week program where you can earn a total of three credits! Three credits may not seem like a lot, but that is an entire semester’s worth of work packed into two weeks, (key word being “intensive”). It's an opportunity to get ahead in school, experience campus before the mad rush of freshmen and it begins your process of making new friends.
All IFS students live in Foster Quad in the Northwest neighborhood of campus. You'll live on the same floor as your classmates along with a resident assistant (RA). Each class has approximately 20 students, taught by a professor and assisted by a TA. Class topics range from the evolution of fashion to books about the transition from childhood to adulthood. I took the course titled “Leaving Teenage Wasteland,” taught by Professor Dana Anderson. You'll attend class every day for four hours, and some will have a range of additional requirements depending on the course you select. I lived on the same floor as some of the fashion gals who had a couple of night meetings, while my class ventured out for a few field trips! It all depends on your professor.
Me and my friends at the Indianapolis Museum of Art for our field trip.
It's not all about class, IFS has social events too! To welcome students, IFS puts on an opening picnic with tie-dying, popcorn and cotton candy machines, corn hole and volleyball. Throughout the two weeks students can enjoy open mic night, campus tours and movie nights under the stars. Open Mic night is an IFS tradition, and movies are projected on the side of Foster Harper; everyone is encouraged to bring blankets and snacks. If it’s too hot for you, you can hang out in the dorms and get used to having a roommate! Similar to the school year, roommates are assigned at random, unless you request someone.
I highly recommend IFS to all incoming freshman! The only downside is that you cut your summer a little bit short, but to be on campus early is totally worth it.
For more information and tips regarding IFS check out these other posts: