This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Vanderbilt chapter.
Looking for classes to take next semester? Vanderbilt has some great ones hidden away. My best tip is to finish AXLE (if you’re in Arts & Science) and your major ASAP so you can take some of these fun courses your senior year! Or they can always work as a GPA booster…
Calligraphy: This class has been one of my favorites. It’s a one-hour credit and only meets once a week. You learn how to paint Chinese calligraphy. You DON’T need to know Chinese, nor do you need to be an artist. You paint worksheets that she brings to class every week. The grading is based mainly on attendance, so make sure you show up every week, but other than that it’s easy to do well. I highly recommend taking this!
Music and the Fall of Segregation: This is a great class where you learn about different musicians and their role in the civil rights movement. It’s Wednesday nights from 6-9PM, but rarely takes the entire time. You watch a documentary about one artist and leave when it’s over. There are 3 one-page response papers and one ten page book report at the end (but it’s nothing to stress over). This was a relaxing class where I got to listen to great music.
Human Sexuality: I loved this class! Professor Leslie Smith teaches it and makes it really fun. FYI: you MUST read the book to get the A grade. It’s not difficult, but the tests are based mainly off of the chapters so expect to read. You have fun clicker questions that are used as a class participation grade, so don’t plan on skipping this class (you won’t want to anyways).
Introduction to Biological Anthropology: Have you watched the show Bones? Well this class makes you feel like Dr. Brennan. The class focuses on the evolution of primates and humans. You learn about Neanderthals and the rise of Homo sapiens. Professor Tung teaches you how to examine bones in order to understand the past. You don’t need a science background to do well in this class, but plan on showing up because attendance is necessary. I highly recommend this class, especially if you need an MNS credit.
Human Anatomy and Physiology: If you like learning about the body, then take this class! Dr. Cobb is the nicest professor I’ve ever had. However, attendance is key. You get a PowerPoint at the start of class and fill in the blanks during his lecture. The tests are based directly off of the PowerPoints, so if you go to class you’ll do fine on the tests.
The Alexander Technique: This class is over in Blair once a week, and it teaches you breathing techniques. I haven’t taken it personally, but I’ve heard some really good things. Just remember its only offered on a pass/fail basis and only has 8 seats!