Angel Bass
Staff Writer
apperson@valdosta.edu

Are you often puzzled when looking at your graduation requirements? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Many students are clueless when is comes to selecting the perfect electives.

“I think electives are helpful for the students who change their major and have already taken major courses,” Alicia Roberson, an academic adviser in the student success center, said.

“These hours aren’t wasted. These hours just move to a new spot in the graduation check sheet.

Electives can also be a place for students to explore interests.”

Advisers often encourage students to broaden their horizons and explore different classes. Picking the right elective can be a challenge. You don’t want to pick an elective and fail it.

Electives seem to be designed to boost your GPA. Who doesn’t need a little boost every now and then?

“I think that electives are great GPA boosters,” Soleil McLaughlin, a junior sports medicine/athletic training major, said. “In a way, they give those that are new to college courses a preview of what to expect before the major courses begin.”

Exploring interests can be very fun. Just imagine taking a swimming class or even a jogging class. Those classes are relaxing and can help you work on getting in shape. What about a nutrition class to help with your workout? Just think about it.

“I like electives because they allow you to try your hand at things that interest you beyond your own major,” Deena Cheek, a senior journalism major, said.

If you are a math major, try taking an English course. Hey, I know that math people usually don’t like English, but it may help you later in your career and your potential employer may be impressed as well.

If you are a history major, try taking a criminal justice or sociology class—just get out of your comfort zone. Be adventurous.

“The most important thing to remember about electives is that they are limited depending on your major. Be certain to discuss the number of electives you have with your adviser. Be proactive by getting a copy of the checklist for your major and plug in your classes,” Robertson said.