LEXINGTON, Ky. — As summer winds down, Transylvania University is offering returning and new students guidance on how to maximize their experience in the upcoming fall semester, according to an article posted to the university's 1780 blog.

The downtown Lexington liberal arts institution encourages students to use the remainder of summer to prepare mentally and academically for the fall term, which begins as part of the university's distinctive 4-4-1 academic calendar. Under this system, the academic year is divided into two 14-week terms in fall and winter, plus a one-month May term that provides study abroad opportunities and focused coursework.

The university, founded in 1780 as the 16th college in the United States, enrolls approximately 1,000 students in its liberal arts program and maintains a student-faculty ratio of 11:1. The private institution offers students a personalized approach to education with 46 majors and the flexibility to design their own academic paths.

Transylvania's advisory comes as the institution continues to emphasize engagement beyond the classroom. According to the university, 90 percent of students participate in community engagement opportunities, while more than 50 student organizations and 26 intercollegiate athletic teams provide avenues for involvement.

The fall semester offers returning students the chance to deepen their academic pursuits and contribute to campus life, while new students will have their first opportunity to experience the university's integrated approach to liberal arts education in one of Kentucky's most vibrant college towns.