If you major is especially difficult, electives can provide a welcome break while still earning you the credit you need to graduate. Many of the easiest electives are also fun and will help you develop skills that could be useful for your career. Here are a few electives in particular to consider.
1. World Music
Expand your understanding of music and discover new styles you never even knew existed by taking world music. This is a less-demanding elective than one that requires you to play an instrument — and it’s open to anyone, regardless of musical skills. As well as being a favourite among music lovers, this elective is a top choice if you’re interested in other cultures.
2. Foreign Languages
Another way to immerse yourself in another culture without leaving home is to study a foreign language. Although learning languages to any degree of fluency is certainly difficult, an introductory class is unlikely to be too challenging. Armed with the basics, you’ll be prepared for trips — and you’ll increase your employability. Plus, if you find that you enjoy learning the language, you can always continue learning at university and beyond.
3. Anthropology
Alternatively, you could take a more historical view of culture by taking an anthropology elective. Whatever your major, you’ll find this useful for understanding how society arrived at where it is today by looking at the formation and destruction of ancient civilizations and the lasting impact they have on us.
4. Photography
Most of us take photos every day and would love to be able to see better results. Whether this skill could be useful for you at work or in your personal life, this is an elective you’ll definitely find beneficial. You’ll be amazed at how much your photos improve when you know a little about framing, lighting, and editing. Plus, you’ll be able to use all those additional features on your camera.
5. Film Production
If you prefer making videos to taking photos, film production could be an elective for you. The class will cover all the stages of making a film, including screenwriting, shooting, and editing. You’ll also have the chance to put what you learn into practice by making some of your own shorts.
6. Screenwriting
You may be able to take screenwriting on its own as an elective. You’ll learn how to write dialogue, develop characters, and keep your audience engaged. This is great if you have an idea for a story for a TV show or movie — you could even team up with a film production major to produce it later.
7. Creative Writing
To learn a more diverse set of writing skills, take a creative writing elective. This can be valuable if you like to write stories or poetry in your free time, or if you want to pursue a career where written communication is important. In fact, just about anyone can benefit from creative writing because of the emphasis on giving and receiving constructive criticism. If you can handle the feedback without becoming stressed, you should find this elective easy due to the freedom you receive to do almost whatever you want in your assignments.
8. Sign Language
It’s much easier to learn sign language than you may think. After completing this elective, you’ll be able to hold a basic conversation in sign. As a result, you may find you’re able to make new friends and develop connections with people you would never have spoken to before.
9. Painting
There’s no need to be artistically inclined to do well at a painting elective. When you learn proper technique, everything becomes much easier. Plus, an introductory painting class is a great way to relax, especially if most of your classes are heavy going.
Another way to gain more from the university experience is to find great housing. Since you’re unlikely to find this on campus, many students search for rooms for rent. Waterloo has King Street Towers, which provides you with a spacious suite, plenty of places to hang out with other students, and an onsite grocery market. Book a tour to see how you could enrich your time at university.