Course registration can be daunting. Though the spring semester may seem far away, registration for classes always seems to come sooner than expected. Considering attributes, major requirements and the Magis Core, it can all get so overwhelming. When the list of classes seems to go on forever and somehow you still can’t find that one attribute you need, how do you navigate it all to put together a schedule that works for you? Many students will turn to “ratemyprofessors.com;” some will work with the advice from friends or advisors and still others will wing it and hope for the best. If you’re still on the fence about which courses to take, here are some recommendations from Stags of all years on their favorite classes here at Fairfield.
Introduction to Philosophy: Most students will take Introduction to Philosophy at some point during their time at Fairfield as it fulfills a Tier 1 Magis Core requirement, but sophomore Lauren Buckley emphasized Professor Nathan Sheff’s role in making the class one that she enjoys. She described how he is passionate about the subject while also understanding that this is an introductory course, therefore tailoring the class to appeal to students. “He learned all of our names within the first week,” she said. She explained that while philosophy is not necessarily a subject she is interested in, Professor Sheff makes the class interesting.
Introduction to International Business: Buckley also expressed her enjoyment of this class, taught by Professor Ruchika Sachdeva. “It’s my major, so I love the material, but she just teaches it really well,” Buckley said. “I feel like I really gain a lot from the course. We do a lot of actual case studies, so I can see how the material applies in the real world. She explains everything really thoroughly.” This course counts toward an International Business requirement, and some sections also offer the Social Justice two attribute.
19th Century Romanticism in Music: Senior Elizabeth Messier spoke on her love for this music history class, which she chose as the best course she has taken at Fairfield. Taught by Professor Alan Murchie, anyone can take this class, regardless of prior knowledge of music history. Messier described the class as “super accessible regardless of your level of familiarity with classical music. There’s truly something for everyone.”
She also touched on Professor Murchie’s impact on the class, explaining, “Professor Murchie makes the content so fun and interesting. He takes the time to explain everything in depth and is always willing to help or answer any questions students may have. There’s a great balance between lecture and listening to music, and Professor Murchie even performs for the class!” The class can count for a music major or a music minor as well as a Visual and Performing Arts credit for the Magis Core, and while it does not appear to be offered for the spring semester, it is one to look out for in the future.
Finding God in All Things: Taught by Fairfield’s very own Jesuit priests, this religious studies class centers on the Society of Jesus and Ignatian spirituality. You may have heard this class mentioned by Father Savard himself during Mass. Three sections of this class are available for registration for the upcoming semester, taught by Father Savard, Father Mulreany and Father O’Brien. This class counts for a Religious Studies and a Catholic Studies credit.
Intro to Professional Nursing: Sophomore Sophia Sobol highlighted this class, which she took with Dr. Kathy Saracino, as a favorite of hers. “She is so kind and the course gets you excited to become a nurse and to learn what is most important in caring for your patients,” Sobol said about Dr. Saracino.
People, Places and Global Issues: Sobol also pointed out this course as one she enjoys. As a nursing major, most courses are preregistered for her, but this was one that she took outside of her major. “This course challenges me with thinking of topics and questions out of my scope, and then later seeing the connections between other classes, my major and this course,” she explained.
Introduction to American Politics: I took this course during my very first semester at Fairfield, and it turned out to be one of my favorite classes. It provides an overview of the American government, explores current events and gives students an opportunity to dive into the parts of politics and government that interest them. This course counts for Politics and American Studies requirements, and certain sections even offer that coveted Social Justice with a Focus on Race attribute. This class is worthwhile for anyone, not just politics majors, because it gives insight into what any American citizen should know about the way their country operates.
Although this is just a short selection, all these courses have been well-loved and recommended by Stags. As course registration nears, they are sure to fill up fast, so having multiple choices and back-up options is crucial. Be sure to keep an eye out for these classes as you plan your schedule for the spring semester!
