During the college application process, I felt like I didn’t know what schools to apply to. I knew that going to an Ivy League like Harvard or Columbia wasn’t in my future, but I still wanted an education that only elite private schools can give. My high school counselor pushed me to look into schools that provide a liberal arts education, which is how I eventually ended up at a school like DU. 

So what is a “liberal arts education?” According to the Association of American Colleges and Universities, a liberal arts education refers to the “approach to learning that empowers individuals and prepares them to deal with complexity, diversity and change.” Essentially, a liberal arts education pushes students to learn about a variety of different subjects, as well as an in-depth study of a specific interest that is known as a major. This means that every student will have some knowledge in subjects like math, science, humanities, etc. 

I liked the idea of becoming a well-rounded student. There are many benefits to receiving a liberal arts education, including: more preparation to work in a variety of jobs, an appealing degree to employers, a good foundation for graduate studies in law, health, business, etc. and a general increase in one’s ability to actively contribute to the community.

One of the reasons why DU has appeal to students is that it gives students a thorough education that makes them more competitive post-graduation. That’s where the Common Curriculum comes in. In my experience with fellow students, the majority don’t like that they have to take certain classes that have nothing to do with their major. For someone who loves English, it is uncomfortable taking a full year of science classes. I can relate to this, as I am going to pursue study in creative writing, yet I am taking Calculus I this quarter. 

I think there is this pre-conceived notion that college is all about studying what you want, allowing you to leave behind the pesky class requirements that high school established. The reality is that people aren’t understanding the benefits of having a breadth of knowledge. A liberal arts education simultaneously allows you to study your interest, learn about a variety of useful subjects and explore classes that you might have never considered before. 

That being said, I think there are some disparities at DU when it comes to a liberal arts education. There is a year-long foreign language requirement in the Common Curriculum. So, most students will take a foreign language with their time at DU. Those majoring in computer, electrical, or mechanical engineering do not have to fulfill this requirement. Additionally, music majors can choose between eight credit hours of foreign language or science. I understand that these are extremely difficult areas of study to pursue, but it does seem unfair that some students are exempt from the required Common Curriculum courses that ensure a liberal arts education. 

In some ways, it seems as though many colleges tailor their focus on STEM majors. A liberal arts education’s function is to ensure fairness in how students receive a well-rounded education. While I believe DU generally does a good job at upholding their belief in a liberal arts education, there are some loopholes that I disagree with. If a STEM major doesn’t have to take a foreign language, why should an English major have to take a full year of lab science? It is ingrained in students that majoring in STEM is the only way to ensure a lucrative career, leading to the unfair assumption that those focusing in the arts won’t find success in the job market. 

A liberal arts education is exceptionally useful for students. They will have a better chance in the jungle that is the workplace after graduation. I am happy that DU provides this well-rounded education, but I am wondering if they are being completely equal when it comes to some aspects of the Common Curriculum. Regardless, I am content with how DU has structured the education that my fellow Pioneers and I are receiving.