In case you are curious…
Psychology 217 with Rebecca Todd: I love her! The class is a requirement for the Psychology Major and focuses on research methods. I thought that I would hate it but have to admit that I am truly enjoying it. Prof. Todd is really engaging and funny and comes up with really great examples to ground the mostly theoretical stuff that she talks about. If you have to take 217, definitely consider taking it with her.
Psychology 305 with Sunaina Assanand: Personality Psychology is really interesting, but this is a theoretical course that examines different theorists and theories for examining personality. So, as Dr. Assanand said on the first day: “If you don’t like theory, this class isn’t for you.” Luckily, I decided to stick with it. Dr. Assanand is an amazing lecturer and provides so many opportunities to come in for more help, as well as hosting study sessions and the like.
Yes! I was nervous about taking a 300 level course but am finding it to be completely manageable.
Psychology 307 with Jason Martens: I love Dr. Martens’ lectures, and cultural psychology is really really interesting. I’ve had more “Ah ha” moments in one month of this class than I have in years of high school and intro psychology. It’s a super-fun course and I love absolutely everything about it except that the lectures are very similar to the textbook content, which can make it seem a little repetitive (but, as I said, it’s engaging enough that I hardly notice the overlap.)
English 223 with Mandy Catron: I am really enjoying this introduction to non-fiction American literature and Dr. Catron makes sure that the classes move beyond lecture format and really emphasize group participation. It’s nice to get a number of views on a piece. Her feedback is very valuable and she really cares about the class.
Creative Writing 203 with Maggie de Vries: I. LOVE. THIS. COURSE. (Though I’d probably say that about any CRWR course.) I am really enjoying reading excerpts from YA and children’s books and the lectures and workshops have resulted in me feeling more motivated to write. I’ve also noticed that I feel more comfortable sharing what I’ve written. (Maybe that’s the reason for all the posts lately.) Dr. de Vries is a really great lecturer and stresses class participation, which is awesome. She’s really passionate about what she teaches, and it really shows.
The bottom line: I am really enjoying everything that I am taking this term. I’ve found that putting my passions first has resulted in me feeling way better about school. I actually look forward to class and feel happier overall because I feel like I’m (finally) in the right place. Here’s hoping it lasts!