Letters & Science 1: First Year Discovery Course
1 Unit (P/NP), Fall 2025
Wednesdays 3:00-4:00 pm, Stanley 106
Letters & Science 1: First Year Discovery Course is a course for new students in the College of Letters & Science. It aims to introduce students to the history and wonders of L&S and the Berkeley campus, support students in finding their way in L&S, and help students understand their place in L&S and in the country.
Questions about the course? Contact Aileen Liu.
I took this class because I was undecided on my future, and I am leaving it with a much better idea of where I want to go from here.
I was able to learn so much things that will help me thrive at Berkeley. As a freshman, we are not exposed to the opportunities we have at school and sometimes, we do not know that there is so much help around campus. This class really helped to learn about the tools we have, and gave me confidence going on in my school year.
For years, I’ve been so committed to one thing that I never gave myself the chance to explore other possibilities. This class opened my eyes to the many opportunities the school has to offer, and it has inspired me to focus on exploring new interests. It taught me to push beyond my comfort zone. I’m excited to see where this new mindset will take me and I will recommend this class to any student at Berkeley.
History of L&S 1
In fall 2002, Letters & Science launched a new course for first-year admits in their first semester entitled “Exploring the Liberal Arts.” From the beginning, L&S 1 was intended to provide an intellectual overview of the College of Letters & Science—from the perspectives of engaging guest speakers chosen from the faculty, deans and recent alumni—and a preview of undergraduate research and other enrichment opportunities. The original course goal was to help students become well-informed participants in their own educational experience, and make the most of their years in the College. As Professor Steven Botterill put it, L&S 1 “offers guidance on what we teach here and introduces students to as many as possible of the people who teach here.”
This class broadened my interests, opened my mind to future possibilities and outcomes of my college career, and has gotten me very excited about the next four years at Berkeley.
I was able to see a wide range of perspectives — some of which left me going Ohhhh, I never thought about it that way before. Moments like that are my favorite, and I’m sure I’ll have plenty more during my time at Cal.