Design Exchange

"Living in a learning community allows you to form long-lasting connections over not just proximity, but shared interests. From taking similar classes, grabbing a bite at the dining center, or just hanging out, being part of a learning community gives you an advantage both socially and academically." -Nick Raap

Open to all majors in the College of Design: Art and Design, Integrated Studio Arts, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Architecture, and Landscape Architecture.

The Design Exchange Learning Community is a full year living and learning experience open to direct from high school first-year students enrolled in any major in the College of Design.  The residential component allows students to build a support network as they transition to ISU and the College of Design. All Design Exchange students are enrolled in a one credit seminar each semester (DSN S 1100 in fall and DSN S 1110 in spring) that encourages their personal, social and intellectual development. All students will take DSN S 1310 in the fall together.  They will take DSN S 1020 in the Spring.  Students also participate in academic and social activities arranged by a peer mentor. 

The Design Exchange is a residential learning community housed in Friley and Helser halls.

To sign up for a residential learning community, simply select your learning community preference when filling out your Department of Residence contract in the Housing portal. You can go in and update or change your learning community preference information at any time up until the deadline without losing your “priority date.” Sign up for the learning community course(s) takes place at summer orientation.