College Classes That Could’ve Been Useful in Real Life
So, during my college years, I took some pretty out-there electives to become a “well-rounded” individual. Quantitative Models & Methods (still can’t tell you what it was about, but somehow I got an A), Sex Discrimination & Law, Modern China, Human Sexuality (which was not as easy as I’d assumed!). But wouldn’t it have been better if these fillers taught us some really useful life skills instead?
Banking Basics
My first bank account was opened in college. And who guided my choice? A cool t-shirt and a free frisbee at the freshman orientation stand. Sure, I unwittingly overdrafted and paid $35 fees numerous times. I had no clue about things like fees, minimum balances, or choosing a bank wisely.
Networking for Beginners
Instead of just kicking me out after handing over my degree, I wish the college spent some time teaching us how to network. In 2005, the Internet was there, but I didn’t know how to use it to connect with the relevant crowd in my field. Networking is a skill, and not everyone has it naturally (me included).
Checkbook Management
Those relentless overdraft fees could have been avoided if we were taught how to track our spendings. This is where basic math turns out to be the most crucial skill most of us ignored.
Budgeting
Once you’ve tallied up your checkbook and realized that the numbers are troubling, budgeting skills could have come in handy. Learning it early can prevent you from living above your means later when you start earning.
Negotiation Tips
Women often earn less than men, suggesting a class on negotiation might have been as useful as women’s studies. We could’ve practiced salary negotiation, sought additional benefits like flexible working hours, extra vacation time, or work-from-home options – not just for women, men could’ve benefited too.
Retirement Savings: IRAs, 401(k)s, & More
A course on retirement savings could’ve been more practical than Statistics or Calculus for 19-year-old me. Understanding saving and investment early in life would’ve taken advantage of the magic of compound interest.
Home Hunting Skills
Important details like examining closet doors, flushing toilets, running sinks, or asking about the landlord before renting an apartment would’ve been extremely valuable information. Also, understanding lease terms and the return policy for security deposits could’ve made the house-hunting process smooth.
Frugal Living Year by Year
This class essentially explains how to live within your means, something necessary throughout all four years of your college experience.
So, if you could choose, what class do you wish they’d taught you in college?