SEM 100 failed. It can be fixed.

Following the permanent expulsion of Theta Tau, Syracuse University jump-started the implementation of SEM 100, a first-year seminar intended to promote conversation about identity and inclusion. SU’s efforts here should be acknowledged as a step in the right direction, but the execution of the seminar was inherently flawed.  

SEM 100 wasn’t successful — and that’s no surprise. Lasting, structural changes to campus culture can’t be completed in one semester, and it’s unrealistic to expect that. Due to unforeseen circumstances, namely the Theta Tau controversy, SU had to expedite the roll out of the seminar, which was already in the works. While that may not be the only reason why SEM 100 was ineffective this fall, SU, as an entire community, and not just the freshman class, can use this as a learning experience.

It will take time to flesh out the program, but that’s time well-spent.

The seminar is in its early stages, meaning there’s flexibility to adapt. What comes next will set the tone for the initiative’s efficacy. SU has the opportunity to build off student feedback to ultimately create a more thorough and established diversity seminar.

The Daily Orange Editorial Board believes that SU should define a specific curriculum that’s not rooted around a memoir to strengthen the course, and believes that it’s irresponsible to expect student facilitators to solely spearhead conversations about deeply personal subjects — the infrastructure necessary for supporting a first-year experience like this is just not in place, yet.

It could be developed, though, as long as the university recognizes the longevity of its goal and uses significant student feedback to strengthen the foundation of SEM 100. If the university doesn’t acknowledge criticisms of SEM 100 now, it will just create a system that will fail again and again.

The Daily Orange Editorial Board serves as the voice of the organization and aims to contribute the perspectives of students to discussions that concern Syracuse University and the greater Syracuse community. The editorial board’s stances are determined by a majority of its members. You can read more about the editorial board here. Are you interested in pitching a topic for the editorial board to discuss? Email opinion@dailyorange.com.