An amazing part of Scripps is being a part of the consortium, however, that means there are over 2,000 classes to pick from each semester. The process of registering for classes can be overwhelming and confusing. Especially when looking at all the different classes and names, how do you even decide? Hopefully, this blog post can shed some light on things and make things a little easier.
There isn’t an algorithm for picking names for classes, besides introduction classes that have the word introduction, professors can make the name they want for their class. These can range from being broad and intricate or specific and basic. I remember looking at the name of my Core 2 class, Subversive Selves, and thinking, what does that mean? It was one of my favorite classes, but I had no idea what to expect from the class when I registered. Another one of my favorite classes I took had a less confusing name, Caribbean Women Writers, a title that gives a pretty good idea of what to expect from the class.
A few tips to approaching classes whose name might be confusing:
- Click on the class. What I mean by this is to read the description of what the class will entail getting a good idea of what to expect from the course.
- Take a risk, some classes might not have more information, or it might not be helpful. If a class piques your interest because of the professor, name, or realm of study, or if it just happens to be the last one that fits in your schedule, take the risk. If it turns out you like the class or don’t either way, it pays off because you now know something about yourself and your learning.
When looking at classes, it can be hard to decide which ones to have on your list. Sometimes, it seems like there must be the “perfect” and “right” class for you to take. In my experience, if you are drawn to a class or want to take a class in that area of study to check it out, that is a great reason to take a class. Sometimes, however, a class has to be taken because it is the one that fits in your schedule. In this case, my best piece of advice would be to find a class that fulfills a General Education Requirement, so even if it ends up not being a class you liked, it still does something to help you fulfill your graduation requirements.
After saying all of this, it is important to remember that no class will hurt you. Each class gives you information about yourself and your learning style, study area, and interests. Hopefully, this blog post cleared some things up, and if you have any more questions, please feel free to reach out to me through email @ sclark9339@scrippscollege.edu or ask questions during my IG office hours on Mondays from 11:00 PM – 1:00 PM PT. Or reach out to any of the other admissions ambassadors through their emails! Stay tuned for more blog posts in the coming weeks!