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Basket Weaving: A Brave New World

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You look through the course catalog and come upon a class—Basket Weaving through Colonial Oceania. Many would question why this course even exists. Such classes are universally scorned, to the point that “underwater basket weaving” has become a euphemism for “worthless, impractical class”. Although electives are, by definition, classes that are optional, the choice of electives is still subject to peer pressure. Students normally endeavor to fill their schedules with electives that closely align with their major, lest they “waste their time” with an unprofitable course. An unrelated elective is not, actually, a waste of time. In fact, it is vital for students to take courses outside of their area of concentration. Although some electives …show more content…

A course in philosophy and critical thinking, for instance, may enhance the problem-solving abilities of a student. This is difficult to quantify or list on a resume, but will nonetheless aid a student as he works toward a career. Many classes teach various soft skills, particularly classes which may seem to teach nothing of practical use. A yoga class improves self-control and emotional regulation, while a sewing class teaches patience and attention to detail. These soft skills are vital to a student’s success in any industry, and are best learned in college. Although these skills can no doubt be learned during an internship or on the job, they will be more helpful to a student when gained early. The students who took diverse electives will stand out among their peers as well-rounded employees with many positive traits. Electives provide an opportunity to gain skills that would not otherwise be learned in …show more content…

After all, they say, the purpose of college is to learn a trade, to prepare for a profession. Sticklers for rigorous class schedules claim that students can gain skills and diversify their knowledge in extracurricular activities, and that students shouldn't be coddled with fun, flippant courses. There is one main point that this viewpoint overlooks: college students work hard. Virtually every college student recognizes that they are being granted a valuable (and expensive) educational opportunity. Any student who is taking a full load of major-oriented courses will take those courses seriously, devoting huge amounts of time and effort to each class. These students simply don't have the time or energy to engage in-depth in as many extracurricular activities as would be necessary to equal the benefit of one elective class. Extracurricular activities are not graded and do not help a student pass the GRE, so they often fall by the wayside. In contrast, an elective class must be completed, once started; this allows a student to gain the above benefits and skills without sacrificing career-oriented schoolwork.
Not only would the student not sacrifice school work, the elective may actually improve it. A student who is compelled, by an elective, to take part in something they enjoy will be a student who is calmer and happier. This student will then be better able to complete major-specific classes.

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