Reflections on Upper Division Classes
Written by Merel Dagher (PEACE advisor)
This semester has been a completely new challenge for me to take on. I decided (not sure how) to take five upper division courses this semester, two for public health, two for cognitive science, and one that cross-lists for both majors. Now these classes have been all over the place, in terms of disciplines. MCB 160 focuses immensely on details and pathways, Anthro 107 looks more at concepts and overarching brain patterns, Philosophy 176 is heavy on readings and discussion, PH 150B also focuses on concepts, as opposed to specific details, while PH 162A is the reverse of that. All of the classes are really insightful and they warrant attention. This has been the biggest lesson for me in taking all of these upper divisions – they’re interesting and worthy of taking.
…which I imagine is how all upper divisions are supposed to be. These classes are geared specifically towards your major and if the major you’re doing is something you love and enjoy, then these classes will only make you fall in love with it more. Upper division courses are challenging – purposely so. The professors push students in terms of assignments, tests, and expectations. However, I’ve found that professors are also genuinely passionate, knowledgeable and caring. All of my professors are amazingly well-versed and all seem to want to help their students succeed. Sure the workload can get overwhelming at times, but I’ve found this semester to be one of my favorites yet.
…which I imagine is how all upper divisions are supposed to be. These classes are geared specifically towards your major and if the major you’re doing is something you love and enjoy, then these classes will only make you fall in love with it more. Upper division courses are challenging – purposely so. The professors push students in terms of assignments, tests, and expectations. However, I’ve found that professors are also genuinely passionate, knowledgeable and caring. All of my professors are amazingly well-versed and all seem to want to help their students succeed. Sure the workload can get overwhelming at times, but I’ve found this semester to be one of my favorites yet.
Now do I recommend taking five upper division courses in one semester? Well, honestly, I wouldn’t oppose it. I think every student has their own limit and their own passions. And some students do better with more on their plate because it forces them to focus (like me), while others do better with less because it allows them to engage more and learn more about one class, rather than spreading their time between many. And I think that’s the cool thing about having a university of so many different students and personalities.
I personally have enjoyed taking all of these classes at the same time. However, it hasn’t been the easiest. But I think that’s been part of the fun.
