Before graduating, each student must complete senior core, a group problem-solving course that brings students together on one topic.
Groups consist of between 4 to 5 members and all must agree on a topic before the next steps can be taken. Required for this project are papers and presentations which the group must defend and state both sides of their topic.
And at a time when graduation is just around the corner, stress levels can reach a new high for students and their groups.
“I know it’s an experience I will more than likely never forget,” Brad Crow, senior, said. “In our case, senior core produces a lot of stress for a group of four members to manage. I know that it has been done, can be done and will be done again so that makes my attitude better.”
But that doesn’t mean that he’s just brushing it off.
“I’m not taking it lightly, I know it’s my final class I need to pass,” he said. “I need it to move on with my life.”
Crow’s group has decided to focus on the topic of prayer in schools.
“I really want to let people know that just because prayer is banned in schools doesn’t mean that they can’t pray or talk about God,” he said.
Senior core tutor is Corkie Hedlund, who provides assistance to students and guidance as the group makes decisions.
Decisions that some students feel are suddenly pushed upon them.
“When you enroll here, core courses aren’t really talked about,” Jill Francis, junior psychology major said. “You just come across it when it happens.”
Once the final paper is written, students must attend a ‘Core Board,’ where they will defend and answer questions in front of Hedlund and a designated professor.
But not everyone thinks that senior core is an effective group project.
“In any group project, you’re going to have some people that work more than others,” Francis said. “I don’t really like the concept of the course.”
Senior Erin Michaels is working with a group that is focusing on childcare in the work place. Her group hopes to propose a childcare service on campus for children and students who have children.
“Child care is an issue that parents struggle with because of traveling, expenses and location,” she said. “Our paper will include cost benefits, advantages, and the need for it.”
Once groups present in front of a core group, all members receive the same grade. Members must receive a C or better to pass.