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The more I learned about the University of Delaware, the more I was impressed both by what has been accomplished here and what is yet to come. Like you, the University has tremendous potential. Delaware possesses a wealth of academic options combined with energy and a commitment to excellence that clearly sets us apart from other colleges and universities. The University of Delaware's commitment to excellence began in 1743, when the Rev. Francis Alison founded the small private academy to which UD traces its roots. Much has changed over the more than two and half centuries since then, but one thing has remained constant - an understanding of the value of education and its importance in preparing individuals to be active and productive citizens of this country and the world. Whether you are entering UD as an undergraduate or a graduate student, this catalog will help you chart your course to an exciting and successful educational journey at the University. If you are an undergraduate, you will have the opportunity to choose from among 125 majors and 75 minors. Whatever academic path you choose, you will find dedicated and talented faculty who are leaders in their respective fields. Teaching is at the core of what we do, and it is not uncommon at Delaware to find senior faculty members teaching freshman courses. To gain the most from your undergraduate experience, your work with faculty must extend beyond the classroom. Active, discovery-based learning is a signature feature of a UD education, and it is a feature that you should take advantage of starting in your freshmen year. UD is also a national leader in providing undergraduate research opportunities and most UD faculty, including over 90% of our science and engineering faculty, sponsor undergraduate research. UD also offers many opportunities for service learning. I encourage you to visit the Office of Undergraduate Research and the Office of Service Learning soon after you arrive on campus. Your undergraduate experience needs to prepare you for citizenship in a global society. In 1923, the University sponsored the first study abroad program in the US, and today UD ranks first among all public universities in the percentage of students who study abroad. We now offer students over 70 programs on all seven continents, each one led by UD faculty. If you are entering as a new graduate student, you will soon find that UD is a major research university with about 3,500 graduate students studying in 43 doctoral and 110 masters programs. Many UD graduate programs are ranked among the best in their fields. Whatever program you pursue, you will have the opportunity to study with highly acclaimed scholars working at the frontiers of their field. You will also have access to advanced research facilities, including a library that is one of the largest in North America. In this, our first year at UD, I hope you will take advantage of the many opportunities available to you. Challenge yourself academically, indulge your passion for learning, and be a responsible citizen in our community. Like you, I look forward to what is yet to come.
Sincerely,
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Welcome to the University of Delaware and to a new and exciting time in your life. This is also my first year at UD, and my decision to
come to Delaware involved weighing many options - just as I'm sure your decision did. 