ThinkBig Lets Students Explore Yearlong Special Topics

Taking a backstage tour of the Fox Theatre, attending a Braves game, and getting to know a professor’s family are just a few things students have experienced through ThinkBig that they might not have otherwise.

ThinkBig living-learning communities give students the chance to pursue a topic, academic or extracurricular, throughout the year under the leadership of a dedicated faculty member. Participants live in designated areas of residence halls, meet with faculty leaders for informal discussions, and participate in outings related to their community’s topic.

“ThinkBig is a great way to bring faculty and students together in an informal environment where they’re still learning, but it’s not in the classroom,” said Sally Hammock, ThinkBig program manager.

Most professors work with students at the beginning of the program and then throughout the year to get ideas for outings, as well as to ensure that the ThinkBig experience is shaped by student preferences. This approach is in keeping with Georgia Tech’s strategic plan to enrich the student experience.

ThinkBig alumni still look back fondly on the program and appreciate the community that came from the experience.

“Living in the International House defined my college experience,” said Craig Miller, a 2009 graduate. “I now have a global community of friends, and it gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities outside of the U.S.” Miller now lives in Seoul, South Korea, where the first people to welcome him to the city were former IHouse residents.

A $150 fee per semester covers ThinkBig participation, including costs associated with outings, food, or programming. Other funding comes from the Center for Academic Enrichment and Department of Housing.

Learn more, including how to sign up, at www.thinkbig.gatech.edu or www.housing.gatech.edu. The deadline for all communities is Wednesday, Feb. 25, unless otherwise noted.

ThinkBig communities and faculty for 2015-16 include: