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Rabbitbmc's picture

requirements are A-OK

I think that the women who chose to attend a liberal arts college like Bryn Mawr do so because either they have no idea what to do with their lives (like me), OR they are set on an idea but are open to other influences that could change their initial plans. And if this is the case, being certain about a major or path, I think that it is important to be a well rounded individual. These requirements, though I definitely think that they can be annoying at times, really make sure that this well rounded path actually happens. I think that by "considering many perspectives", one gets a beneficial balance that is invaluable. Also, by forcing us to experience different areas of study, I really think that we are getting our money's worth at Bryn Mawr. Or at least some of it.

And to be honest, at a college where you can mix and match with 35 majors and 39 minors (not to mention 7 concentrations), I am extremely grateful for these requirements! Maybe I'm leaning back towards our previous idea of limiting choices, but i know for a fact that having a curriculum that "leads the way" will definitely help me figure out what I really love to study.

The only real flaw that I can find is- yes here it comes- that darn language requirement! I definitely feel that what Dean Tidmarsh was saying about limiting this requirement for future classes is a great idea. I know that there is more than one girl in my Spanish class who is completely miserable- and its not just because we are conjugating verbs at 9 in the morning. I really think that having a classroom full of women who truly enjoy learning a certain language will create a better environment for everyone- students and professors alike. It's hard enough getting an unenthusiastic student to enjoy a class in English, let alone intensive Chinese or Russian.

Besides the language issue, I personally am fine with the requirements in place and don't think that they should be too watered down.

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