Advice on Choosing an Elective for Semester Two

GREENFIELD – Since the first semester is ending on January 22nd, students are not only preparing for midterms, but also for their second semester electives. Upperclassmen at Greenfield High School provide advice for underclassmen on how to choose their electives.

At GHS, students have a selection of over forty electives, each one focusing on a different activity. However, many students can only choose one or two for the semester. In addition to this, there are requirements for graduation that can only be achieved by finishing elective courses. How does one pick the right class?

“When choosing an elective I follow my gut,” advises Lucy Karieva, a sophomore here at GHS. “When you hear about the elective and what it offers, remember your first reaction, and go for the one you feel most positively towards.”

“If you already have hobbies or things you want to explore, take a few electives relating to them! But also try out some new classes, too,” adds senior Alara O’Bryan. “It can give you an opportunity to experience a new subject, and a potential passion! It's also a great confidence-builder, which is really what high school is all about—discovering who you are.”

“I wanted to sign up for a drawing class but it was full so I went into ceramics. And funnily enough, I loved it ten times more than I thought I would, and it has become one of my biggest enjoyments in life,” admitted Autumn Bross, a senior. “Don’t hold yourself back. You never know what fun and beneficial thing you might learn”

Electives are often required by schools because of the skills students gain by taking them. They also give students relief from the core classes in their daily schedule. Some interviewed students reflected on the other benefits of taking electives.

“Motivation, for sure. Learning about something new, even just the basics, can open so many doors to explore!” responded Alara. “Plus, in discovering your interests, you can find new ways to express yourself.”

“Other than credits, you get to learn new skills and discover new passions,” expresses Autumn. “I discovered pottery, but maybe you will try cooking, or graphic design, or shop or anything. It can help you focus your interests and introduce you to potential career or college options.”

There are some specific electives that the interviewed students enjoy, mostly because the classes play into their creativity, while also boosting self-expression.

“Band gives a good sense of community, as you build relationships with people all over school,” promotes Lucy. “Not only can band keep you socially and emotionally healthy, but you can get scholarships from it as well!”

“Film Production! So many fun ideas you can bring to life with a little editing,” encourages Alara. “Plus, although it's scary at first, it can be so satisfying to share your creations and see what everyone else made!”

“I’d love to promote ceramics! The class is super underrated, and people often get bored with it and stop trying early on because it can be difficult at first,” says Autumn. “But ceramics is such a wonderful and relaxing skill to have, and once you get the basics down there is no telling what kind of art or functional piece you might make!”

Ultimately, it is the student’s decision on what to take as an elective. Although there are requirements for graduation that may sway students’ selections, an individual’s hobbies and preferences will greatly influence the decision. Each year, more electives are added as well, expanding the access students have to classes in their interests. Even if you do not like the elective you chose, you can always drop the class.Just stick with your instincts and desires, and you will succeed in your electives.