Consider this: taking a class just for the fun of it. 

I’m willing to bet there’s at least one class you’ve considered taking, but are concerned it isn’t required for your degree. Many students are dutifully trying to get the all-important degree, something to be admired, but focusing solely on that goal may blind you to the many wonderful class options available outside your degree program. 

Maybe there’s something you have an interest in that you’ve never considered studying in college. I think it’s wise to select primarily classes that will count towards your degree, but why lock yourself into taking just those classes while you’re in college? 

Not counting financial aid, tuition for a one-credit hour course here at WSU is about $200 and at 16 class periods per semester works out to be about $12.50 per class. Even if you took a three-credit hour course that meets once a week, if you average the cost among five week days, it works out to only about $7.50 per day for the whole semester. You could easily spend the same amount at a movie or on dining out every day, but if you spend that $7.50 on a college class, you’ll be getting college credits, valuable life experience and that class could lead you to a brand new adventure you might have never found otherwise.

You may feel it would be more efficient to only take your required courses. There is something to be said for this; it’s true you’re saving time and money. But you run the risk of suffering burnout if you are not energized by any of the required courses you’re taking. 

I remember one semester where my class schedule was loaded down with math and science courses; I decided to take a couple music classes with these to help keep me refreshed and energized. I am so happy I did. I really looked forward to my music classes, and it made the semester much more enjoyable; however, I still had the satisfaction of knowing I’d also worked hard in my calculus, chemistry and physics courses.

I’m not suggesting you study only subjects you like and enjoy; pushing yourself through challenging material is extremely valuable, even when it’s not fun. But I do suggest that along with every few “required” classes, you include at least one “fun” elective of your choosing.

It’s important to get rejuvenated by studying topics that interest you. Hopefully, you enjoy your major. But let’s face the facts: many people are getting degrees not only to further their education, but also just so they can make more money. Make sure you’re taking a step back once in a while to ask yourself “what do I really love doing?” and “what would I do if I didn’t have to worry about paying the bills?”

Keep in mind, though, that enjoying what you do and earning a nice income are by no means mutually exclusive. Perhaps taking an elective will lead you to working part-time in a new field, or even starting your own business. Flip through any entrepreneurship magazine, and you’ll see many people start businesses not only because they see a need for their product or service; these people often also love what they do, and want to be excited to go to work each day.

Perhaps most importantly, realize no class ever has to be a waste of time or money. Even if you change your major, find your interests have changed or have to re-take something you took 10 years ago, make sure you’re keeping a positive perspective. 

You may network with a person you wouldn’t have met except by taking those elective classes. Perhaps, if you’re into digital design or writing, one of your classmates will be the inspiration for a drawing someday or a character in a novel. 

Whenever I’m in a situation I feel is a waste of time, or that I don’t enjoy, I cheer myself up by thinking “if nothing else, this is making for some excellent people-watching, and someone in this room may be the very inspiration I need for a story idea or a cartoon someday.”

In my case, when I’ve taken electives, I’ve focused primarily on one-credit recreational classes, specifically golf and tap dancing. They added so much fun and excitement to my time at college. Next semester, I’m hoping to take at least one class that will provide a creative outlet for me in art. Please consider joining me this November in electing an elective.