During registration season, college students are searching for courses that may spark their curiosity. Many are in search of alternatives to discover topics outdoors their main, and Iowa State affords a wide range of satisfying programs.
Students don’t all the time choose electives primarily based on necessities, however select them as a result of they sound fascinating and provides them a break from their traditional research.
Hannah Wegmann, a junior in animal science, shared that she took a horticulture class as an opportunity to strive one thing new.
“The class was HORT 1310: Floral Design,” Wegmann stated. “I wanted to take something outside of my major that would allow me to learn more about different interests I have.”
Wegmann stated she seems to be for satisfying courses, but additionally seems to be for manageable programs.
“I was looking for something fun to take that was also on the easier side, so that I could look forward to going to throughout the week,” Wegmann stated.
Advisors encourage college students to enterprise outdoors of their main and discover different issues which will strike an curiosity.
“Electives are a way to identify new interests, pursue passions or hobbies that are not directly related to their major and help students diversify their learning,” tutorial advisor Madison Akers stated.
Evan Cichon, a senior in structure, took HDFS 2760: Human Sexuality, a course he discovered each fascinating and thought-provoking.
“I heard about this elective through various different friends, and I took the class because of how odd and unique it sounded,” Cichon stated. “I wanted to take it to see if it really covered the topics that they said it had.”
Brooke Thomas, a junior in industrial engineering, discovered enjoyment in her WiSE 2010: Women in STEM Leading Change course.
“I have always had a passion for the science behind women in male fields,” Thomas stated. “When I heard that there was a class that went into that and how women feel being in those fields, I was immediately drawn to take part in it.”
For many college students, distinctive assignments are a part of what makes electives stand out.
“The discussion posts are always rather interesting, as everything is anonymous, so no one is afraid to tell their true opinions about the posts,” Cichon stated.
Cichon expressed how he was uncovered to new subjects and concepts.
“The most interesting thing I have learned so far is learning about the various different relationship types in modern dating, and how this relates to the psychology of the human brain,” Cichon stated. “This psychology also relates back to our evolution from ancient primates and how they were possessive over their spouses, similar to monogamy today.”
Students even have concepts for dream electives they’d like to see provided at Iowa State.
“I would probably make [a course] about the science behind Taylor Swift’s writing and how it affects not only her fans, but the public in general,” Thomas stated. “I think that being able to go deep into her songs and lyrics, but also just analyzing the science behind her image on the public is super interesting.”
As Iowa State continues to develop, so does its checklist of inventive and interesting electives.
“The great thing about Iowa State is that it’s such a large university that new and interesting classes are constantly being developed,” Jessica Hansen Moench, assistant director of educational advising, stated.