Class Structure
When I first started college, I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do. So, I decided to spend my freshman year focusing on General Education (GE) classes. There are 8 GEs at Scripps, and I figured it would be a good idea to knock those out early. I ended up spending most of my first year exploring different subjects through these courses, which turned out to be a great way to get a feel for what I might be interested in.
Now, with my GEs mostly out of the way, I’ve got the next three years wide open to dive into classes that I’m genuinely excited about—without the pressure of fulfilling those core requirements. It’s a nice feeling knowing I’ve got the freedom to explore more specific interests and even take some risks with my course choices going forward.
So, if you’re not sure what you want to major in or what direction to take, starting with GEs is a smart move. It buys you some time to figure things out while still making progress toward graduation. Plus, you might just discover a passion in an unexpected place.
Campus Employment
Finding a job on campus is pretty easy, especially if you start looking early. During the summer before my freshman year, I started browsing job postings on Handshake, a website that connects students with employment opportunities on campus. That’s where I found my first job at Denison.
As I got more comfortable balancing work and school, I started taking on more responsibilities and adding a few more jobs to my plate. It’s pretty common for students at Scripps to juggle multiple jobs, and there’s no shortage of opportunities. Many offices on campus hire throughout the year, so there’s always a chance to pick up extra work if you’re interested. Working on campus has not only helped me financially, but it’s also given me a chance to connect with more people and build skills that I know will be useful down the road. If you’re thinking about working on campus, I’d say go for it—you’ll find plenty of options, and it’s a great way to get involved in the community.
Campus Resources
SCORE: This stands for Scripps Communities of Resources and Empowerment. Their office is one of my favorite spots on campus. It’s a communal area where you can grab a snack or get some homework done. It’s a welcoming space where you can take a break or connect with others, which is always nice during a busy day.
Club Events: Scripps has a ton of clubs that meet weekly, and they’re a fantastic way to meet people who share your interests. Many of these clubs also organize off-campus trips, which is a great way to explore and take a break from campus life. For example, the Outdoor Leadership Club organizes trips to the beach, hikes, and other outdoor adventures. I even went to Santa Barbara for a conference with my affinity group, which was an amazing experience.
CP&R (Career Planning & Resources): CP&R is a goldmine of support when it comes to career and employment. I took advantage of their Resume Revamp program, where they give you detailed feedback on how to make your resume stand out. They also offer career treks, multiple grants, and host career fairs throughout the year.
I hope you find this little snapshot of my freshman year helpful!