Next year is my freshman year, and I'm a tad nervous about what classes to take. What are some commonly taken classes by college freshmen?
Typically, college freshmen take general education or "core" courses, which cover a broad range of subjects and are designed to give all students a foundational understanding in a number of areas. These often include:
1. Composition or Writing: This class will work to improve your writing skills, which are essential in any career or field of study. You'll likely focus on composing essays, critically analyzing texts, and researching topics.
2. Math: Depending on your major, this could be anything from a basic college algebra course to calculus or statistics.
3. Natural Science: This may include courses in biology, chemistry, physics, or earth sciences. Some universities allow you to choose a specific pathway through the sciences based on your major or intended field of study.
4. Social Sciences: These are commonly courses in anthropology, sociology, political science, or psychology. These courses look at how societies function and how humans behave within those societies.
5. Humanities: Classes in this area might cover literature, philosophy, art, or history. These courses generally encourage critical thinking and cultural understanding.
6. Foreign Language: Depending on your school's requirements, a semester or two of a foreign language may be expected.
These general education course requirements can vary greatly by college, so I recommend referring to your school's course catalog or speaking with an academic advisor for more tailored guidance.
In addition to these general courses, freshman year is a great time to start dipping your toes into your major or field of interest. However, don't feel rushed to know exactly what your major will be. This is a time for exploring, so consider taking a variety of classes even if they're unrelated to your currently intended major. It might help you discover new passions or strengths!
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