<p>Hey guys,</p>
<p>I heard from some Rice alumni that incoming freshies have to take 2 writing exams, and, if they don't pass, they're put in remedial writing classes. Also, Rice freshies have to read a book over their senior HS/college freshie summer, and write essays on them and stuff like that. </p>
<p>Can anyone please explain these issues? I've heard only bits and pieces of what is going on and would like to know the truth before I head to Rice this August.</p>
<p>Thanks!
lilypuppy</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Rice does require all incoming students to take a writing composition exam (it's online, done over the summer, you'll get information on it in plenty of time). If you don't pass (which roughly 1/3 of people don't), you're required to take COM 103. No need to stress about it though.</p></li>
<li><p>Rice did institute a common reading program. Last year the sent out a copy of Field Notes on a Catastrophe. There were no required essays or tests on it, just some dinner conversations. (there are plans to change it this year to make it more effective, but don't worry, you won't be given a test or an essay on it when you get to Rice.)</p></li>
</ol>
<ol>
<li>There are currently two books being considered for the common reading (narrowed down from an original field of about 50). I can't talk about it any more than that because it's still confidential, but both of them are very different and very interesting choices. The common reading committee is working on making the common reading more interactive and engaging than it was last year.</li>
</ol>
<p>Are they usually non-fiction?</p>
<p>We've only had a novel for common reading since last year, but yes, they tend to steer towards non-fiction. I'm not sure I agree with the committee's rationale behind this, though.</p>
<p>last year's common reading wasn't even discussed, it is definitely not required.</p>
<p>Also, I'm in COMM 103 right now, it is not so bad.</p>