By Elaine Liu
Boston University’s Kilachand Honors College allows students to pursue their academic majors and minors while providing the opportunity to discover or further additional STEM and humanities interests. However, there are many more perks to KHC than you may realize. Here are my top 5 reasons why you should apply!
1. Small Community within a Big Campus
KHC is a living-learning community, meaning all freshmen live in the same dorm hall and attend shared KHC classes together. Transitioning to college can definitely be daunting, but KHC sets you up with a group of familiar faces you’ll see around campus!
2. Amazing Study Spaces
KHC features a newly renovated 9th-floor study lounge open to all students, complete with an expansive window overlooking the Charles River. While it is usually packed throughout the weekdays and on Sundays, take advantage of the mornings as a KHC student and get some work done early for an incredible view and a quiet environment!
3. Unique Electives and Helpful Professors
As freshmen, all KHC students are required to take two KHC-specific electives—one per semester. Not only is this a great way to knock off some of BU’s general hub requirements, but it also gives you the opportunity to explore intriguing topics outside your major! For example, I took Conspiracy Theories in the Modern World last semester and am taking The Romance Novel this semester. Because class sizes are around 15-20 students, you get to interact with your classmates and professors much more intensively than in a typical lecture. All the professors are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable in their fields, so don’t be afraid to reach out if you have any questions or simply want to chat.
4. Priority Class Registration
KHC students receive priority registration, and course selections open about 30 minutes earlier than it does for the earliest group of general students. This eliminates the stress of panic registration and helps ensure that you get a seat in every class you intend to take. However, note that KHC electives are still very selective, so you should still plan to register right when it opens to secure your first-choice elective.
5. Washers and Dryers
Let’s all face it: The ratio of washers and dryers to students at any college, Boston University included, is usually far from ideal. The constant fear of having your laundry removed from the machine should not be one of your main stressors in college. Luckily, KHC has its own laundry room equipped with dozens of machines and ample time for you to do your laundry (but not too long, please be considerate of other residents as well!)
Arriving as a student at Boston University can be intimidating, but being a part of the Kilachand Honors College makes things just a little easier. Whether you are interested in exploring your interdisciplinary interests or simply concerned about getting your laundry back in one piece, consider applying to KHC for an unforgettable college experience!