UCI’s Most Intriguing Classes
Upon entry to UCI you will quickly realize that we have an environment of constant exploration and discovery. We pride ourselves in the amazing and breakthrough studies that take place on campus. However, the first step in making such discoveries requires a broad range of studies. Finding a subject, whether it is explicitly academic or unexpectedly academic, can easily be achieved through the eclectic arrangement of courses offered. If not pursuing these courses for a projected path, a lot of times you must fulfill a few units here and there to graduate. Why not make them fun? Here are just a few interesting classes that have been offered in the past.
Disneyland: Art, Architecture and Operation
UCI recently launched an academic course titled “Disneyland: Art, Architecture and Operation” taught by Roland Betancourt. He is an associate professor of history and visual studies and a seasoned Disneyland adventurer. Rather than view Disneyland as simply an amusement park, Betancourt hopes to shed light on the historical prevalence and themed experiences that make it a unique cultural phenomenon. Due to Disneyland’s close proximity, of course field trips are often part of the curriculum! Students uncover the secrets and historical narratives behind the conception of the Disney craze. If I hadn’t already planned out my senior year, I would have absolutely considered taking this course. As a UCI student, it’s almost necessary to take breaks at Disneyland, so why not study it?
The Beatles and the Sixties
“The Beatles and the Sixties” is a course offered by the Claire Trevor School of the Arts in the Music department. It is open to all interested in the mindset of fan bases, music and counterculture, and the basic elements of music. The course gives greater insight into past music eras as well as their influence on contemporary music. Think of it as more of a conceptual class; it delves into aspects of what makes the music industry and the consumer base. Especially with the music industry we have now, learning a bit about the buzz can aid us in navigating how we view musical artists and the culture they create. Perhaps we can liken the Beatles counterculture to K-pop – I mean, both have an avid fan base and both generated a subculture still not fully understood by their time frames.
UTEACH Seminars
And last but not least, my favorite… basically every seminar in UTEACH! UTEACH employs esteemed undergraduates like us to teach and develop curriculum on a topic of their expertise. This is an extraordinary opportunity that our campus has to offer.
“Online Game Behavior, Toxicity in Online Gaming Communities” was one of my favorites. This course was taught in Spring 2018 during a prevalent time of online bullying and harassment. As a video game player myself, I cannot deny the extent to which toxicity has grown. Gamers are split into “console” versus “desktop” and other nonsense categories. With the rise of competitive esports and the success of UCI Esports Arena, “Online Game Behavior, Toxicity in Online Gaming Communities” is a timely course offering. Perhaps after taking this course you can play a round in the Esports Arena and apply the behavioral etiquette you learned taught by a professional gamer.
At UCI we like to balance work and play. UTEACH courses are a great combination of both, and hopefully some have caught your eye. Keep updated with UTEACH offerings by visiting their website
Maelee is a third-year Global Cultures and International Studies. She hails from the suburbs of Los Angeles, CA but her heart is split between France and South Korea. In her free time she replays Skyrim and looks for new laptop stickers on Esty.
