As class registration approaches, many students find themselves navigating the complexities of the Magis Core. Designed to provide a well-rounded education, the Core’s attributes aim to prepare us to think critically and gain educational knowledge that prepares us for the real world. But as we hurry to complete these requirements, we must ask: do we really need all these attributes? Does Fairfield University offer sufficient opportunities to fulfill them, and do the classes we take truly embody their intended outcomes?

The Magis Core consists of several attributes, which exist in the forms of social justice, natural science and other requirements. Each is meant to enrich our academic experience and encourage personal growth. However, one has to wonder whether this framework is truly necessary for a meaningful education. While the intent behind these attributes is commendable, the pressure to fulfill them can lead to a superficial understanding of what it means to be a well-rounded student. Are we genuinely engaging with these concepts, or checking boxes to meet graduation requirements?

A significant part of the challenge lies in the availability of courses that fulfill these attributes. As we review our options during registration, it is apparent that not all students have equal access to all classes that meet the Core’s demands. Some attributes may be well-represented in the course catalog, while others lack adequate offerings. This imbalance raises concerns about whether the university is genuinely committed to providing ample opportunities for all students to engage with every aspect of the Magis Core. Are we truly being given the chance to explore and embody these attributes, or are we simply left scrambling to find courses that fit?

Moreover, the question of whether these classes actually deliver on their promised outcomes is crucial. Many courses advertise their focus on ethical reasoning or social justice, yet students often feel like they finish with a shallow grasp of these ideas. For instance, a course might include discussions on specific social justice issues in its syllabus, but if the assignments do not encourage critical reflection or personal connection to the material, students may walk away without a meaningful understanding of these classes. For many students, these classes do not genuinely instill the attributes they claim to represent.

To gain a fuller picture, we should also consider student perspectives. Conversations with classmates reveal a range of frustrations regarding the Magis Core. Many express feeling overwhelmed by the requirement to fulfill all attributes without adequate guidance on how to do so effectively. Others highlight the disconnect between course descriptions and the actual content taught. These sentiments highlight the need for the university to reassess how it communicates the importance of the Magis Core and ensures that students can engage meaningfully with its objectives.

While the Magis Core aims to provide a comprehensive educational framework, it raises several questions that deserve attention. As students, we must advocate for a curriculum that genuinely supports our growth and aligns with our educational needs. It is crucial for Fairfield University to recognize that checking off attributes should not be the goal; instead, we should strive for deeper understanding of the values they represent.

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