When we were in high school, most of us were taught that college is a whole new world when it comes to academics. Our teachers would tell stories of how college would be, almost as if they were ghost stories. They made it seem like we would never have time for fun or time to do anything other than take our required classes and graduate. As a junior in college, I’m here to tell you that this is not the case. I did not come to college with any credits. I have taken classes required for my major and minor, but I’ve also had time to take classes that have nothing to do with either category, and they were all beneficial for a few different reasons.
1. It might be required to graduate
Some colleges actually require that their students take a few classes in addition to their core classes for their major in order to become familiar with college-level classes. It's also a good way to integrate your learning.
2. A GPA boost
Taking classes outside of your requirements, and doing well in these classes, can boost your cumulative GPA. A GPA may not mean a lot to some people, but for those of us who plan on attending a graduate, medical, or law school, GPA means EVERYTHING. Keep in mind that just because this class isn’t required for your major, it does not mean that you don’t have to go to it. The point of taking the class is to do well.
3. You'll meet new people
If you attend a small school like mine, you’ll start to realize by junior year that you see the same people in your major classes. This can give you a chance to meet people who you don’t see regularly in all of your other classes. Who knows? Best friends are found in the strangest places.
4. You could discover a minor/double major
Don’t tell your parents you heard it from me, but sometimes, taking classes outside of your major might help you discover that you want to take a new minor or have a double major. You might even want to change your major. This is why many schools, like mine, require a student to take a few general education courses that range across different fields of study. You might take a class and find that it goes perfectly with your major. It might even help you find some direction towards a career if you’re still unsure.
5. You could discover your passion
This goes along with the number four. However, you don’t have to change your major to discover something you’re passionate about. You might start a club, participate in some community service, or become a miniature expert on whatever amazing new topic you learned about in your class.
6. You'll learn new things
I know this seems obvious, because this is the whole reason we’re in school. I just thought I would add it for those who might have forgotten.
7. More professors who know you means more recommendations
The more classes that you take, the more professors you’ll have a chance to get to know. Some professors you'll like and some you’ll love--either way, you’ll be able to come back to these professors to provide you with recommendations for graduate school, jobs, and other positions on campus.
