Emotional Intelligence (EI) has been defined as knowing the emotional state of self and others. Its relevance for college student development is only beginning to be researched. In the present research, the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory was administered to college students at the beginning and end of a semester-long course designed specifically for first-semester undergraduates at a public university in a sparsely populated state. At the beginning of the semester, student EI scores were significantly lower than the normative mean in several areas, but were generally within the normative range. Over the course of the semester, women made significant gains in total EI and three composite scores. In contrast, the scores for the men were stable across time. We are encouraged by the growth made by the women in this short time frame. Additional research is necessary to determine whether men can also achieve this surge in EI. (Contains 1 table and 4 figures.)