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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the LSU Summer Reading Program (SRP)?

The Summer Reading Program is the freshman students’ first introduction to the academic expectations of the University. As an LSU freshman, you are required to read The Complete Persepolis before arriving on campus in August, attend the Academic Convocation on August 22 at 9:00 a.m. at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, and participate in one of the discussion groups with other freshmen and a faculty member to discuss the Academic Convocation and the book.

Why has LSU instituted a Summer Reading Program?

Will the book be used in classes?

Students are encouraged to read the book because many teachers will be drawing from the book to frame discussions and writing assignments over the fall semester. 

Why was The Complete Persepolis selected?

• The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi marks several firsts for LSU’s Summer Reading Program now in its fifth year.  Most strikingly, it’s a graphic memoir combining text and black and white sequential art to relate the story of growing up in revolutionary Iran.  It’s also the first selection to focus on the Middle East, the first to be created by a woman author and artist, and the first to be transformed into an animated film, allowing students to compare and contrast reading and viewing experiences and to discuss the connections and tension between visual and verbal literacies.

  
  The memoir tells of Satrapi’s struggles growing up in Tehran during the turbulent Islamic Revolution.  When Satrapi’s political views at school threaten her safety, her parents send her to boarding school in Vienna to escape the escalating violence.  Life is not easy for the teenager on her own, and she makes some bad decisions; she eventually returns to her country and family to encounter incredible public and private changes.  Following a brief marriage and divorce, she finally chooses a life of exile in France where she continues her studies and career.  The reader learns about her extended, loving and supportive family, her dreams, her religious beliefs, her rebellious nature, her poor judgments, and her triumphs. The memoir is at times funny, poignant, surprising, scary, honest, and sad, but always full of the Iranian author’s keen observations.

  
  Persepolis addresses issues that will appeal to students leaving home to pursue an education; to Americans wanting to learn more about the history, religions, politics, and culture of Iran; and to readers who are curious about how visual and textual components can work together to enrich a story.

What should I do before I arrive on campus?

How can I get a copy of the book?

You will receive a copy at Spring Invitational or Orientation.

Is participation in the Summer Reading Program required?

Yes, all freshmen are expected to read the selection and attend both the Academic Convocation on August 22, at 9:00 a.m., and the faculty-led discussion groups that follow.

Do I have to attend the Academic Convocation and the breakout session?

Yes, all freshmen are expected to read The Complete Persepolis and attend both the Academic Convocation on August 22, at 9:00a.m., and the faculty-led discussion groups that follow. The breakout session is your opportunity to meet with an LSU faculty member before classes begin. In some cases, you may be assigned to meet with a faculty member who will be teaching one of your courses. In all cases, you will meet someone who can answer questions about academic life at LSU.

What and when is the Academic Convocation?

The Academic Convocation signals the beginning of a new academic year. It is scheduled for August 22, at 9:00 a.m., in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

What should I bring with me to the Academic Convocation?

How will I know where to go for my discussion group?

Students participating in the Honors College or any residential college will receive their room assignments in advance. Most students will receive their room assignments as they enter the convocation on August 22. Please arrive early – no later than 8:30 a.m. – to get your assignment and be in your seat by 8:45 a.m.

What will happen if I do not attend? What if I have a conflict Friday morning? What if I have band or sports practice? What if I have to work?

What if my fraternity or sorority has scheduled an activity?

Faculty and staff who have organized the Summer Reading Program have made certain that there are no fraternity or sorority activities scheduled for Friday morning, so there should be no conflicts.

What if my friend at LSU who isn't a freshman wants to attend?

All LSU students, faculty, staff and surrounding community members are invited to attend.

What if I need a copy of The Complete Persepolis in an alternative format?

Please bring the copy of The Complete Persepolis you received at Spring Invitational to the Office of Disability Services in 112 Johnston Hall, and you will be accommodated.