Hi everyone! I'm considering the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), but I'd love to hear some first-hand experiences before I jump in. So, do we have any CIIS students or alumni here who'd like to share their thoughts? Thanks in advance!
Absolutely! While being a past student or alumni of the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) would likely provide the most accurate representation, I can certainly share a bit of what past students have reported.
Many students have praised CIIS for its emphasis on personal growth and self-exploration. The courses, especially in the Psychology and Consciousness Studies departments, tend to be introspective and encourage students to think critically about their own identities, beliefs, and biases. So, if self-discovery and personal exploration are high on your list, it might be a good fit.
Students have also frequently noted the faculty's passion for their subject areas, which can contribute to a vibrant and engaging learning environment. There's a sense of camaraderie and interchange of ideas encouraged between faculty and students, which is a highlight for a lot of people.
Additionally, the individualized and humanistic approach to education is a feature often acknowledged. The small class sizes allow for closer interaction with faculty and more personalized attention, which can enhance learning outcomes.
However, there can be challenges as well. Some previous students have mentioned the administrative side of things can be disorganized at times. Such issues could range from late communication about changes to policies or schedules to inaccuracies in billing.
Furthermore, like with any college experience, what you get out of it will largely depend on what you put into it. CIIS's unique educational philosophy may not suit everyone. If your learning preferences align more with traditional academic structures with more predefined outcomes and less subjective assessment models, the school's holistic and self-direction encouraging approach might take some getting used to.
Remember, it's also always a good idea to visit the campus if you're able, and talk to current students or faculty directly. It can often give you a more holistic view of what your experience might be like. Good luck with your decision-making process!
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