First-Year Academics

The First-Year Tutorial, a central feature of Grinnell College’s curriculum for 50 years, is designed to give you significant practice in analytical and critical reading, writing, and speaking. Faculty from all departments of the College teach in the tutorial program. The relationships you build within your Tutorial will extend beyond your first semester. Your Tutorial professor will be your faculty adviser until you declare a major (usually in the spring of your second year). Your classmates will form an important cohort for you – a group you’ll be together with in your first semester and will reunite periodically with during your first two years.

1. Review the Tutorial courses that will be offered this fall. Although some tutorial subjects may appear to relate to academic majors, Tutorials never count toward majors. You should pick based on the topics that sound most interesting to you. You will have many opportunities this year to take courses related to your potential major. The first semesters of college are your time to explore!
2. Beginning June 1, log in to the New Student Checklist (login required) and choose five Tutorials that most interest you. You must enter your preferences by June 15, no later than midnight, Central Daylight Time. In late July you will learn what tutorial section you’ve been placed in, and, consequently, who your academic adviser will be.

Questions? Check the Tutorial FAQ page.