How Can I Make the Most of My Remaining Credits?
I’m attending a Midwest college that requires 122 credits for graduation. I’m majoring in Latin with a minor in philosophy, and I’ll complete my major by the end of this spring semester. By Fall ’25, I’ll have finished my minor as well.
After that, I still need to take four essential studies courses and 32 elective credits. My problem is that my school doesn’t offer many classes that align with my interests. The Latin department is quite small, with only three professors:
- One who teaches advanced Latin and serves as the department chair.
- One who focuses solely on Classics, not including Latin language courses.
- One who teaches only introductory and intermediate Latin.
Due to this limited faculty, I’m restricted to taking just one relevant class each semester. Even when I explore courses in other departments, such as History or Political Science, there’s often only one class that interests me. I have no desire to double major or convert my philosophy minor into a major. My true passion lies in Classics, but I’m concerned about spending my time on unrelated courses that won’t benefit my future studies.
For those who have had to take a significant number of elective credits outside their main field, how did you make the most of the experience? Were there ways to make those additional courses more meaningful or engaging? I’d love to hear any tips or suggestions!
It sounds like you’re at a bit of a crossroads, but there are definitely ways to make those remaining credits meaningful! Here are some suggestions to help you navigate your path:
Independent Study: Talk to your professors about the possibility of an independent study or research project related to Classics or Latin. This can provide you with a focused and enriching experience while allowing you to dive deeper into your interests.
Online Courses: Consider supplementing your education with online courses that align with your interests in Classics, philosophy, or related fields. Platforms like Coursera, edX, or even specific universities offer courses that can widen your knowledge and make your résumé stand out.
Interdisciplinary Connections: Look for ways to integrate your Latin studies with other subjects. For example, courses in archaeology, art history, or literature could enhance your understanding of the cultural context of the texts you’re studying. You might be surprised by how relevant these courses can be.
Internships or Volunteer Work: Seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, or student organizations that align with your interests. Working in museums, cultural programs, or academic tutoring can provide practical experience while deepening your knowledge.
Active Participation: Get involved in campus activities related to your field, such as clubs or events focused on Classics or surrounding disciplines. This can help you build connections with professors and students who share your interests and may lead to future opportunities.
Network with Faculty: Build relationships with your professors, especially those in your Latin and philosophy departments. They can offer guidance on which elective courses might still be relevant and might also be able to suggest other ways to enrich your experience.
Connect with Other Departments: Don’t hesitate to reach out to other departments to see if there are any interdisciplinary courses that might align with your interests. Sometimes, courses in art history, literature, or anthropology can provide valuable insights relevant to your major.
Study Abroad: If feasible, consider studying abroad in a country with a strong connection to Latin or Classics. This could not only be a life-changing experience but also provide you with unique credits and perspectives.
Remember, even seemingly unrelated courses can offer you transferable skills and broaden your horizons. Try to approach your remaining credits with a mindset of exploration and curiosity, and you may uncover valuable insights and experiences along the way!