This past week I started a new class. If that sounds odd, my school offers eight-week intensives which splits the semester into two parts.
I’m very excited for this particular class. Partly because it means my last eight-week hell session is over. Mostly, I’m looking forward to this class because I think I will enjoy the material and will be able to directly apply it to my work.
My partner didn’t see it as clearly as I did. I took some time explaining the abstract value of this class, and even provided some examples of how it would benefit my future.
His questioning of me likely reflects the feeling many nontraditional students have. It seems there is a push for nontraditional students to get the classes they need which directly apply to the field they want to work in as quickly as possible. But I think being in such a hurry means potentially missing opportunities for growth and critical thinking.
Curriculum
Obviously, students need to take everything required in order for them to graduate. Schools lay this part out very clearly.
Schools also often provide options for students to show a little creativity. Electives are required but loosely governed. Even with major related courses, I’ve seen programs that tell students to pick a certain number from a given list, allowing the student to create a unique experience.
This opportunity to choose and create a program should not be taken lightly. By allowing your courses to reflect your personality, you’ll be more likely to stick with the program and get your degree. You’ll also have a demonstration of your preferences and interests to show to potential employers.
Creativity
So how do you go about choosing classes when you have the opportunity to do so?
The first thing you need to ask yourself is, “How will this class help me?” There are a lot of ways to answer that. If you’re lucky, the subject has a clear connection to your future career. Not all classes so obviously give away that answer, though. Not all applicable lessons are direct. In fact, the abstract ones push your critical thinking and problem solving the most.
After you determine all the benefits of the class, decide whether or not you will enjoy it. Life’s too short to take shitty classes. If you have the choice, use it to your advantage. Take something interesting that you will like. Take something that will help you grow into the person you want to be.
My Current Class
The class I’m taking which sparked this thought process is an English class on short stories. It’s mostly literary analysis with a little creative writing sprinkled in.
My degree upon completion will be in Professional and Technical Writing. It is designed to prepare students for a career composing professional documents such as, emails, reports, plans, white papers, copy, you get the idea. How would learning about short stories be beneficial?
Much of professional writing is designed to make use of persuasive rhetoric. The writer is trying to convince someone to purchase a product, change a policy, donate to a cause, or progress an organization. People have to read those documents. People easily get bored with numbers, statistics, and charts.
The human element sells. Creating a narrative aids in the process because it gives something the reader can relate to.
Also, dammit I just wanted to take the class because I enjoy reading short stories.
Are you worried about your upcoming courses as a nontraditional student? Have you ever taken a class that gave you unexpected benefits? Leave a comment and tell me about it. I’d love to hear about your concerns and experiences!