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Free At Last! … To Choose Classes at Kellogg

Since the first day of class in September, when we all realized that we were doomed to ten weeks in the same classes, none of which we got to choose and all of which would be graded on a curve, we all waited for that one special moment. That day when we would be free to choose the classes we took. Well, just this week, that moment has finally arrived for students at Kellogg, as Monday marked the first day of classes in our second quarter.

Class selection is definitely an interesting thing here at Kellogg. Unlike some schools (ie HBS) where you’re captive all during your first year and then all of a sudden completely free in your second year, achieving freedom at Kellogg happens more gradually. That happens for a couple of reasons.

One, because many people start the program having studied business during undergrad. As such, they were able to waive out of a few classes and can finish the core classes more quickly. Second, many of the JD-MBAs and 1Ys took classes over the summer, so some of these students also finish classes at a different pace than the two year students. And preference also plays a part, as some students choose to take all their required classes right away, while others spread their core classes out over the year. Either way, this quarter definitely represents more freedom for everyone in the class of 2012.

Sounds exciting, right? Well, not too fast. Like most things in life, the grass is always greener.   The process of picking classes, navigating waitlists, strategizing your bids, and getting lucky with professors you like is not always easy.  Similarly, we also have to think about recruiting now, which is a very structured experience for most of the class. And that’s something students certainly can’t opt out of. And finally, the process of choosing can be overwhelming, given that Kellogg has such a high number of courses available. And that’s especially true for JD-MBAs and 1Ys, who have more limited time so want to be more strategic with their choices.

On the other hand, having the option to choose courses provides an immense number of benefits.  You avoid being subject to the dreaded curve that are mandatory in core classes.  You get to tailor your classroom experience, which is not only good for maintaining your interest level in class but also to help market yourself for the recruiting process that’s just now getting started. And last but not least, you finally satisfy the craving to have freedom to do what you want.

Best of luck everyone, with your class choices!

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