Advice Needed for Choosing a Social Science Class

Hey there: I'm currently a junior and I'm thinking about taking a social science class in college to cover some gen-ed requirements early. I'm overwhelmed with the options though. Any tips on identifying an easily manageable but still interesting social science class in college? Any help appreciated!

Great question! You're smart to maximize your high school experience by getting a head start on fulfilling your general education requirements.

First, review the options available at your intended college. Check out the course catalogue to see what topics are covered in social sciences. Topics may vary greatly, from sociology and anthropology, to geography and psychology.

Secondly, consider what sort of topics or issues you find interesting. Do you enjoy current events? Then maybe a course in political science might be of interest. If you're fascinated by different cultures, an anthropology class may appeal. Psychology offers insights into human behavior, which can be broad-based or more narrowly focused, depending on the class.

Next, balance your interest with the course load. Make sure to look at the syllabus for any potential classes. Do they require a lot of outside reading or extensive papers? Remember, you will be balancing this with your high school coursework so you don't want to overload yourself. Websites like Rate My Professors can give you a sense of what students think about specific classes or lecturers.

Also, consider if the course could dovetail with your future major or career. For instance, if you're contemplating a career in law, a class in Sociology might offer useful insights into societal structures.

Finally, it's generally good advice to opt for a broader, introductory course when picking a social science class - they are usually designed to give a broad overview, which may be more manageable and interesting for high school students.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a course that aligns with your interests and abilities. Don't simply choose the 'easiest' class; college is a great opportunity to expand your learning and challenge yourself. Good luck!