'Hey Kiddo' author will visit campus Monday

Krosoczka’s presentation and book signing from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Student Center Ballroom is free and open to the public. Later in the day, he will meet privately with groups of students to cover specific topics of interest and answer questions.

The Common Reading Experience sub-committee of the First Year Experience committee chose “Hey, Kiddo,” after reading a variety of novels, graphic novels, and non-fiction books. According to Christine Fullerton, sub-committee member, the decision was also based on feedback from students who participated in the pilot Common Reading Experience last year.

“(The students) reported that they enjoyed reading John Lewis’ graphic novel, ‘March,’ so we ultimately decided to choose another graphic novel,” Fullerton said. “‘Hey, Kiddo’ was selected because it is a timely topic, written in an accessible way. The book touches on many different issues, including addiction, art, and family relationships, which we felt would yield fruitful discussions.”

Fullerton said the purpose of the Common Reading Experience is to help first year students transition from high school to college, grow academically and socially, and participate in guided academic and social activities with other members of the campus community.

“The goal is that the common experience will help students hone skills such as empathy, thoughtfulness, and critical thinking,” Fullerton said.

Students enrolled in The Academic Life (EDUC 121) and First-Year Inquiry courses Relationship 2.0 (FYI 169AI) and Survival Skills 101 (FYI 169X) are using the book. Additionally, faculty members in Psychology, Social Work, Criminal Justice, and Agriculture and Rangeland Management departments are either incorporating the book into their courses or encouraging their students to read it, according to Fullerton.

Members of the Common Reading Experience sub-committee are: Fullerton, Dr. Kathleen Kirsch, Dr. Elisabeth Ellington, and Taylor Osmotherly, associate director of Residence Life. Kirsch co-chairs the First Year Experience committee with Lisa Stein.