A better requirement

As I near the inevitable double-major “victory lap” at IU, I am being bombarded by graduation propaganda, paraphernalia and a reminder that I have yet to complete a requirement from the University. Without my math requirement, I am not a graduating senior.

I understand that a university like IU has certain requirements, and I have respect for the field of mathematics (especially as one who cannot understand most of it), but I do not see the benefit of a college-level math course.

I have not used the math I learned in my junior year of high school (the last math course I took) and am certain that the requirement at IU would not surface as a daily necessity while attempting to balance my checkbook, budget my income, or fill out my tax form. Instead of a math requirement, each student should be required to take a more intellectual and applicable course, for instance, the human sexuality course offered through the school of HPER.

Unlike finite, knowledge about sexuality and sexual health are vital to everyone (including the Pope). For some, the idea of a required human sexuality course might be offensive. I argue that the course is not a bandwagon for premarital sex or a glorified movie night of pornography. This course provides groundwork for young adults, who already have, through their pure existence as human beings, embarked on a life of sexuality. Knowing how to intelligently, respectfully and critically approach such a complex subject as sexuality is fundamental to a greater understanding of the world that surrounds us in and out of college.

So, dear Dean of Students, before I receive another letter or phone call about graduation, please look at my transcript and ask yourself, has this student earned a fulfilling college education equating to intelligent knowledge and adding up to a lifelong preparation for her next step, and I can tell you that from where I am after these last four years, I know how to solve the equation.

Haddie Katz
IU senior