Easy A

By Rachel Levi; For The Clock

On November 3, 2016

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Easy A

Rachel Levi

For The Clock

rlevi@plymouth.edu

Registration for Spring Semester is upon us. The task of choosing classes can be overwhelming, especially when our present semesters are hectic enough. Many of us may be tempted to take the easy way out and intentionally schedule classes later in the day, with professors who are rumored to be less challenging. The allure of lessening your workload to have an “easy” semester may sound appealing now, but what does this do to further your education you pay so much for? Challenging classes are wonderful and teach many important lessons when given the chance. Why would you pay thousands of dollars for an education only to treat it like an inconvenience?

Every department has a multitude of professors, and for every professor there is a well-known reputation amongst students. Some students may opt for the notoriously easy-going professors, but what does this mean for their education?

Just like every department, English Professors here at Plymouth State have their own respective reputations. Ann McClellan, Head of the English Department, is rumored amongst students to be one of the most difficult. Some students may hear this and run, scared of challenge.

When asked about her thoughts on this, McClellan stated “Students brag that they graduated without taking a class with me.” Is that really something to be proud of, though? Students should come to class wanting to learn, and possessing the passion to do so actively.

When asked what would cause students to do poorly in her classes, McClellan states “By not showing up or turning stuff in.” It seems then, that difficulty does not come from the professor themselves, but ones’ willingness to participate in the course work. When asked what made for a successful classroom experience McClellan state “Students, 2 years later, are reaping the benefits.” With the abundant support systems Professors offer, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to manage a challenging course.

Most often, courses which challenge you most are most rewarding, and hard work will certainly pay off. So, when registering for your Spring Semester, try to challenge yourself by not going for that Easy A.