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Batuhan Saridede
![Profile picture of the blogger outside Sanborn Library](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/400x420_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/screen_shot_2022-09-18_at_6.33.44_pm.png?itok=HEfpAhht×tamp=1688587481)
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First-Year Fall Term Classes
Dartmouth offers a wide array of classes in the spirit of the liberal arts, encouraging risk-taking and intellectual exploration. Here is how I am taking advantage of the liberal arts in my first term!
WGSS 10: Sex, Gender, and Society
The first term is full of academic and social adjustments. Thus, taking a course I knew I would enjoy eased my transition into Dartmouth. WGSS 10 was the perfect choice for me to get started in a field within my comfort zone.
Professor A'ness is amazing!! Our classes generally operate in a discussion format, where we engage with multiple texts on gender and sex through an intersectional lens. So far, my favorite activity in WGSS 10 was when we divided into small groups, went to a local coffee shop during class time, and talked about our experiences with sex-ed!
Writing 5: Metamorphosis and Otherness
To provide a solid foundation for college-level writing, Dartmouth requires first-year students to take a first-year writing and a first-year seminar class. There are multiple ways to fulfill these requirements, but I chose to take Writing 5 for my first-year writing.
Each section of Writing 5 focuses on a different theme, so there is room for exploration. I ended up taking mine on "Metamorphosis and Otherness," where we discuss intriguing texts and the concepts of transition and change! Writing 5 creates a secure environment for first-year students as there are only 16 students per section. Even in three weeks, I can definitely see improvement in my writing and critical analysis skills!
ECON 1: The Price System: Analysis, Problems, and Policies
One thing about the first few terms at Dartmouth is that you are practically free to explore any field your heart desires without worrying about major or distributive requirements. Thus, I decided to take an Economics class to try something new. The class defied all my preconceived notions and biases about Economics. As the name suggests, ECON 1 requires little to no experience in the field. The course covers foundational topics in Economics and relates theoretical concepts to real-life events, including but not limited to minimum wage, food banks, and even peanut butter and jelly consumption patterns!
I would never imagine writing this, but I am now considering pursuing Economics further with a potential major/minor. If exploration were not a central value at Dartmouth, I would hesitate to take an Econ class. I am beyond grateful that I took a chance in a field out of my comfort zone!
Those are my classes this term! I find the first term a great time to dip your toes into fields you would otherwise not explore. Going into week 4 of my first term at Dartmouth, I look forward to making the most out of my classes as I embark on new explorations!
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Sophomore Summer has already defined itself by its exciting, unfamiliar experiences and the relaxed atmosphere of campus. With new classes and clubs in full swing, here is what I have been up to during this wonderful time on campus!
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In this blog, I would like to share some other academic-inclined ways that Dartmouth students spend their freshman summer.
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In the summer, prospective students might take the time to visit potential colleges and universities to apply to. But what are some things to look for as you peruse campuses and take in the view, especially during the summer? Here are some ideas!
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I'm now finally done with my pre-medical requirements and wanted to continue my recap of the whole journey!
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My first-year at Dartmouth has been a period of profound growth and self-discovery. It has challenged me to push beyond my limits, embrace my strengths and weaknesses, and navigate the complex web of opportunities that define college life.
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"What's your major?" seems like a pressing question for every freshman, but now that my freshman year is behind me, I know I shouldn't have worried as much.
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Dartmouth has Distributive and World Culture Requirements, including the Writing classes, that are be fulfilled during your first year.
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