My Two Course Term
At Dartmouth, students typically take three classes per term. My friends who are studying at colleges with the semester system take more classes, but since Dartmouth terms are much shorter than a semester with merely 10 weeks, we take fewer classes per term. Even though the fast pace of the term is a bit of a challenge, I prefer taking only three classes so that I can maintain my focus more strongly on my course subjects instead of having to divide my attention into more classes.
While the typical course load is three, it is possible to take two or four classes a term at Dartmouth. I had never deviated from the usual three-course term until this winter. Unfortunately, I started the term off with an injury, which prevented me from arriving on campus on time. Thankfully, most of my professors were really accommodating, allowing me to keep up with coursework virtually for the first two weeks of classes. Still, I realized keeping up with three classes, one of which I no longer needed due to a change in my major plans, was stressful, especially because I picked up new extracurricular leadership positions and work responsibilities this term. So, I decided to cut myself a bit of slack and take two classes, allowing me to have a less stressful recovery period and put more energy into my work outside of class.
One of the classes I am taking this term is PSYC 84.05: Power of Beliefs, which explores how beliefs affect clinical outcomes. The class discusses everything from the placebo effect to how culture influences the manifestation of mental illness symptoms. This class is one of the permission courses in the psychology department, meaning it counts as a culminating requirement for the major and you need instructor permission to get in. Contrary to my initial concerns, it was actually quite simple to get in, as you only need to write a few words as to why you want to take the class given you have already taken the prerequisite courses. I look forward to this class, as it closely aligns with my interest in clinical psychology and the readings so far have been super interesting!
The other class I am taking this term is ANTH 50.56: Anthropology of Food. It is the first anthropology class I have ever taken and I am really excited for it. The professor has been incredibly helpful and accommodating throughout my injury, as I could attend classes via Zoom. Beyond the subject matter itself, the class is also super interesting in how the professor has constructed the assessments. Instead of focusing on grades, the class follows a mastery plan, allowing more flexibility to engage with course material. It also looks like we will be trying out a lot of dishes in this class, so I could not look forward to it more.
Stay tuned for more about these classes!