FallHanover, New Hampshire
If you’ve ever wondered how the U.S. government actually works beyond what you learned in high school, or how ordinary people like us can make an impact, this class is a great place to start. It’s an intro to American government, but it goes way beyond memorizing the three branches or the Constitution (though yes, those are in there too).
We looked at everything from voting behavior and political parties to interest groups, the presidency, Congress, and the courts. But what made it really interesting for me was how we connected all of that to our lives. Like, what role do we play in this system? How can we push for change, even when it feels like only the elites have a say? The class gave us frameworks to think critically about how decisions are made and how power moves, from behind the scenes deals to big public moments. It definitely changed the way I see the news, elections, and even conversations about democracy.
WinterHanover, New Hampshire
One of my favorite classes so far has been Spanish 20. It’s the first course for anyone thinking about majoring or minoring in Spanish, and honestly, it felt like the perfect bridge between just learning the language and actually diving into the good stuff, like literature, film, and culture. We didn’t just focus on grammar or vocab; instead, we explored short stories, poems, plays, articles, and even movies, all in Spanish.
What I loved most was how the class helped me build the tools to really analyze what I was reading or watching. We learned how to break down different kinds of texts and talk about them in a deeper way, using literary and critical terms that made me feel way more confident discussing complex ideas (in Spanish!). Plus, it exposed me to writers and perspectives from all over the Spanish-speaking world, which was super eye-opening.
If you're someone who wants to go beyond the basics and start thinking in Spanish instead of just translating everything in your head, this class is such a great place to start.
SpringHanover, New Hampshire
Right now, I’m taking a class on medical ethics, and it’s been one of the most challenging and engaging courses I’ve taken so far. We’ve been exploring questions about autonomy, like when, if ever, it’s justifiable to override someone’s personal choices. We’ve looked at cases where patients refuse life-saving treatment, where parents make medical decisions for their children, and where the government steps in for the sake of public health.
Lately, we’ve shifted to other complex issues like the ethics of medical research, how to fairly distribute limited medical resources, and the moral questions surrounding prenatal testing and physician-assisted suicide. Each topic pushes us to think carefully about what’s ethical, not just in theory but in real-world situations.
What I appreciate most is how this class makes space for nuance. There are no easy answers, and we’re encouraged to think critically, consider multiple perspectives, and wrestle with the tension between individual rights and collective responsibility.
