Ryan ChartrandThey may scare you, you may despise them and you may put them off for as long as possible, but sooner or later, you’ll have to confront them. That’s right, we’re talking about general education classes.
Although some general education classes may have an empty reputation, others out there aren’t so bad. The Mustang Daily provides some tips for finding “the good ones” in a list we call “The Top Five Actually Enjoyable G.E. Classes.”
1. First and foremost, there’s the Area F class, or the technology elective. Unless you’re some type of engineering major, this is usually the least favorite G.E. class among students.
However, after asking countless people, the votes all came back the same: Take AERO 310, Air and Space. Why? Well, why not learn about the history and impact aviation has had for the world as well as its future developments.
2. Depending on your major, you may have the D5 area: the upper-division for society and the individual. A high recommendation would be HIST 306, The Witch Hunt in Europe.
I’m sure you’re thinking, “Why would I want to take another history class?” But this one is truly interesting. Yes there is a high reading load and you certainly need lots of studying for the midterm and final exam, but it’s still worth it.
Taught by Paul Hiltpold, who has an extensive background on the topic, you will discover how thousands of “witches” were legally persecuted throughout 1400 to 1800.
3. Another Area D class is the D3 section, and a good choice is ANT 201, Cultural Anthropology.
You may become inspired when learning about all the patterns of diversity throughout different cultures worldwide. To some, it’s cool to learn about other cultures and it sure beats sitting through just another monotonous lecture.
4. Now onto Area C for arts and humanities. HUM 320, Values, Media and Culture, is an easier class about television, films, magazines and advertising. All greatly impact our contemporary society, making it easier for students to relate to.
5. Again, depending on the freedom of your major, try taking ASTR 101 for the Area B3 physical science class.
Sure, it requires lots of studying, but this class reviews what we all learned in fifth grade. It delves deeper into the formation of the solar system as well as observations of the moon and other planets.
This is your opportunity to let your secret nerdy-side unveil while you discover Ptolemy and Galileo’s theories.