Hey peeps, I'm a little confused about electives in college. What exactly are they? Are they just classes you choose because you're interested in them or do they have to tie into your major somehow?
Electives in college are essentially courses that you choose to take based on your personal interests or goals, and they don't necessarily have to be directly related to your major.
For instance, if you're majoring in Biology but have an interest in Creative Writing, you could choose to take a Creative Writing course as an elective. The flexibility of electives allows you to explore various academic areas outside of your major field of study, which can lead to a well-rounded educational experience.
It's important to note, however, that while electives offer the freedom to explore, they're not just fillers. They contribute to your overall credit hour requirements needed to graduate. So, while you have the liberty to pick what interests you, those courses still count towards your GPA and degree completion.
Furthermore, some colleges might have categories of electives (like humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, etc.), and you may be required to complete a set number of credits in each category. This is part of the institution's general education requirements meant to ensure that students get a broad educational foundation regardless of their major.
Remember, your academic advisor is a great resource for any further questions you may have about specific elective requirements or suggestions for your college.
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