Easing into University of Amsterdam?

Hey everyone, I'm really considering going to the University of Amsterdam. It's a major transition and I'm a bit anxious about it. So, I was thinking I might start with some of the easier classes. Anyone got recommendations for what these might be? Also, could these classes possibly benefit my major in the long run?

First of all, congratulations on considering the University of Amsterdam. It is a well-respected institution known for its academic rigor, but also for its supportive and dynamic student community. It's completely understandable that you're feeling some anxiety about the transition. Starting out with some of the easier or foundational classes is a common strategy for easing into university life.

Without knowing your major, it's hard to provide specific courses. However, most study programs at University of Amsterdam start with a set of foundation courses, and as they are designed to equip all students with baseline knowledge, they can be more accessible than specialized major-specific classes taken in later years. In addition, it might be beneficial to explore courses offered under the University's various "minor" programs. Minors are basically structured set of elective courses that allow you to specialize or acquire more depth in a particular area, supplementing your major program. Some of these might be less intensive than the major courses and could make for a gentler start.

Moreover, it's worth noting that the concept of "easier" classes can often be subjective and depends on your existing knowledge, strengths, and interests. For example, if you're strong in humanities, you might find introductory philosophy or linguistics courses to be more manageable than say, an introductory physics or calculus course.

Whatever you decide, make sure to balance your course load. Mixing up some challenging classes with more enjoyable or relatively lighter ones can provide a solid, stress-managed learning environment. Furthermore, it's always a good idea to talk to academic advisors at the university or current students in your intended major to get a sense of the workload associated with different classes. They could also help you identify the 'must-take' courses that might ease your way into your academic journey while still providing benefits to your major later on. Remember, taking it easy at first doesn't mean you're not ambitious or driven, prioritizing your mental health and adjusting to the new environment is equally important! Good luck with your studies!