
How I Pick My Classes Each Term!
One of the most exciting times of the academic year for me is when we get to pick classes for the upcoming term. I love seeing what departments are offering new classes, and what timetable would work best with my schedule. Near the end of each term, the course election portal is opened, and we are able to pick three classes. How does one know which classes to take? Here are three ways I guide my course selection:
- No. 1
Personal Interest
The most important aspect of choosing classes, in my opinion, is personal interest. Each time the course catalog comes out, I go through it and write down the classes the pique my interest. I always find that if I am interested in a class, I will do better in it! Some of the classes that I’ve taken because of personal interested are: “Religion, Politics, and the Presidency” and “Narrative Journalism”.
- No. 2
Major or Minor Requirements
Majors at Dartmouth typically require around 10 classes to complete. Minors range anywhere from 5-7 classes typically! Each major has a different set of requirements and classes that you must take to fulfill it. Some majors require prerequisite classes, and others, like my religion major, allow students to jump in and start taking any level of class. Some classes that I’ve taken to fulfill my major requirements are: “Ancient Egyptian Religions” and “Religion and the Rise of Capitalism”.
- No. 3
Distributive Requirements
To fulfill Dartmouth’s liberal arts degree, all students are required to take a set of distributive requirements. These classes range from a literature requirement, to a quantitative and deductive science requirement. Distributive requirements can be fulfilled at any point during your four years as an undergrad but must be completed in order to graduate. Some classes that I’ve taken to complete the distributive requirements are: “Geovisualization” and “The Music of Today”.