Whether you’re looking for a class to fill a gap in your schedule, need more credits, or are looking for some registration inspiration, here are my top picks for classes offered this spring with no prerequisites!
- HDF 1050: Human Development (S1) with Camelia Maianu
TTh 10:05-11:20am
The #1 course I recommend to anyone who will listen. If you have a caregiver, ever want to be a caregiver, have relationships with people you love, want to work in a helping profession, or want to understand your childhood better, you need to take this class. This class teaches how humans change throughout their lifespans and how relationships and society influence these changes. It’s like psych, but with more focus on our relationships and environment rather than our internal biological systems. This class will force you to rethink all of your relationships and how you can support positive connections with your loved ones.
- SPCH 1400: Effective Speaking (OC) with Isabel Birney
TTh 10:05-11:20am or 11:40-12:55pm
This was one of my favorite courses I’ve ever taken at UVM. It’s a course built around making speeches in front of your class. It’s definitely intimidating for people afraid of public speaking, but also a great low-stakes opportunity to get better at it. You get to make speeches about pretty much whatever you’re interested in at the moment. Isabel is a great teacher who does a great job at making class super interesting and relaxed. But the best part of this class for me was the community I was able to build within the classroom. There are only about 20 students, and you’ll all be in the same position of having to speak in front of each other. And because it’s a 1000-level course, underclassmen are able to take it and have an atypical seminar-style small class.
- PEAC 1006: Yoga and Mindfulness with John McConnell
TTh 2:50-3:40pm
*$95 PEAC fee*
I feel like you have to try a yoga class at least once at UVM! This is such a cool opportunity to wind down and relax during the week, while still earning credit. Personally, I don’t take time for mindfulness unless I’m being held to it, which was accomplished by taking this class. This class helps you develop many wellness strategies to take with you, and I always looked forward to having it. John helps to foster a nonjudgmental and calm space.
- ENGL 1002: Creativity & Expression (FW and WIL1) with Lexie Perlow
TTh 8:30-9:45am
This class is a great creative outlet for anyone who isn’t able to express creativity in their other classes or simply needs a chill, less structured class. It helps you improve your writing skills, which can be used in any class. Lexie is so sweet, and she creates an environment where you really want to show up and try your best. You’re able to have a lot of choice within your assignments and write about stuff you’re interested in while learning about what your peers are interested in as well.
- NFS 1043: Fundamentals of Nutrition (N1) with Lizzy Pope
TTh 4:25-5:40pm
*Prerequisite of high school chemistry or biology required*
This has long been one of the highest-rated classes at UVM. Anyone who takes it raves about Lizzy and the material they learn. Even if you’re not in the nutrition field, this class teaches you so much about your own nutrition habits and is helpful for anyone going into a helping profession. It has a pretty light course load, and Lizzy is very accessible and welcoming.
- PSYS 1400: Intro to Psychological Science (S1) with Larry Rudiger
*Asynchronous*
This is a basic, introductory psychology course open to all majors. If you’re interested in psychology or just want to learn more about human behavior, this is the perfect class to take. The material is super interesting, but it doesn’t make your workload or schedule much more stressful. Especially asynchronously, you’ll be able to do the work when it’s best for you.