First-Year Read Discussion

We are excited to announce that for our 14th First-Year Read Discussion, the class of 2030 is reading Klara and the Sun by Kazou Ishiguro. During Orientation Week, on Wednesday, September 2, from 2:00 - 3:00 pm, all First-Year students will participate in a faculty or staff-led small group discussion of this text. 

Leading a First-Year Read Discussion

• We aim to have enough faculty and staff serve as discussion leaders to keep each group close to 10 students
• To prepare to lead these book club-style sessions, all leaders will be invited to participate in a Fall Academy training and discussion
• To be considered to lead a discussion, register at this link

Discussion Leader Timeline

• First week of August: Klara and the Sun will arrive at your campus address. Contact Linda Hurt with questions.
• Thursday, August 27, 2026, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.: Fall Academy First-Year Read Discussion training, register at this link
• Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.: First-Year Read Discussions across campus

Student Timeline

• Mid-June: Books will be mailed to your home address.
• Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 2:00-3:00 p.m.: First-Year Read Discussions accross campus