Embracing the Unknown
Graphics by Megan Radakovich
All we hear from our advisors is to focus on classes that satisfy core curriculum requirements. Others may emphasize registering with professors who have a reputation for being interesting or effective teachers. But what about taking a chance on a class you know nothing about? It’s counterintuitive, but that could actually be one of the smartest moves you can make in college – and one of the most impactful.
Expand Your Perspective: Taking a class outside your comfort zone is a great way to expose yourself to new ways of thinking. Different disciplines connect in unique ways, like math and cooking; psychology and sports; or economics and fashion.
Discover Hidden Interests: Random classes are a great way to uncover a new passion or talent you never knew you had! Even if you don’t end up switching your major, taking an elective can stoke curiosity, lead to side projects, or reward career niches.
Develop Transferable Skills: Creativity and ideas are born when you least expect them. Even when the course material may seem unrelated, you may be pleasantly surprised to gain skills that can be applied elsewhere. Some of the more obvious include public speaking and communications skills; logic and reasoning from law and philosophy; or creativity and spatial awareness from broadcast and art.
Boost Adaptability & Confidence: Starting with no predispositions is a great way to learn more about yourself, prove you can learn and succeed at anything, and have fun in the process – all of which builds critical confidence needed for our rapidly changing world.
Meet New People and Perspectives: Just like the saying goes, “opposites attract”; different majors and courses tend to attract a variety of people and perspectives. Taking a class out of your comfort zone is a surefire way to meet students outside your major – many of whom see the world differently than you or your normal peers do. Anything can happen from unexpected new friendships, ideas, and more.
These are just some of the many reasons why taking a chance on a class you know nothing about may be one of the smartest moves you can make! Personally, I plan to sign up for a cooking class in the spring – I love to eat my Nonna’s cooking, but wouldn’t know where to begin to cook myself. Hopefully, you will give it a try as well!