Importance of non-science classes?(pre-nursing)

caliotter3 · Jul 27, 2015

Some schools make 'foreign' language mandatory, or give extra consideration to courses and/or being bilingual. This course would typically work in your favor. I think you would enjoy it.

mrsboots87 · Jul 27, 2015

I think it would be weird if they thought anything of it. A) Being Chinese in America doesn't automatically mean you speak another language fluently, and B) it would be rude for an interviewer to assume that, C) even if they did assume you speak another language, they wouldn't know which one. Also, just because you already know the language doesn't mean you won't have to have put in some work for that A. Knowing the language definitely helps though.

I do have to ask though, will this class fulfill some part of your degree required courses? Because if not then I would suggest taking an elective course that does.

Miss Infermiera2b, BSN, RN · Jul 27, 2015

I would look into the requirements for nursing schools that you're interested in to see if there are non-science courses that they require that you haven't taken yet. Other than that, I think taking Mandarin would be fine and I can't see why the SON would have any issues with that.

FolksBtrippin, BSN, RN · Jul 27, 2015

I don't think it will look bad. But you may find it boring and a waste of your time. It may be so easy for you that it's hard to pay attention and do the work. You may become irritated with the class. Ask other people who've done this and see what they say. I have never known anyone to enjoy it when they take a class far before their level for an easy A.

I recommend that you pick something else that will open your mind to something you don't already know without busting your butt. Theatre appreciation, art appreciation classes are great and they often involve going to museums and shows. Find something that interests you.

Ragland93 · Jul 27, 2015

They shouldn't say anything about it and if they ask you could say you took it to refine your knowledge of the language. Some people speak a different language but aren't good at the grammar and writing of the language.

PaulBaxter · Jul 27, 2015

If it was me, I'd prefer a laid back class where I could still learn something useful or interesting. You're paying big bucks to go to school, so why not make it count.

I'd check with other students about which classes are a bit more laid back. Maybe a Spanish I class, or who knows what.

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · Jul 27, 2015

Do it! What a great idea! Boost the GPA and demonstrate bilingualism. Win-win!

llg, PhD, RN · Jul 27, 2015

I don't think it will hurt you noticeably ... but it probably won't help you, either -- and that is an opportunity wasted. Your resume later will be stronger if you could say that you are fluent in Mandarin and knowledgeable about other things, too.

Dfalck3 · Jul 28, 2015

I was actually in the same situation as you this summer. I could take philosophy (which I don't really like) or take advance spanish, since I'm hispanic. I choose to pick the class that would actually teach me something new, without being really hard (it is still considered a laid back class), instead of going for the easier route. I'm not saying it's wrong for you to take the mandarin class.. I'm just not sure if it will help you at all, but it will definitely NOT hurt your chances.

direw0lf, BSN · Jul 28, 2015

Many nursing schools strongly prefer Spanish for foreign language, and if you haven't taken it already, I think that would be a good option.

laundrypodkebab · Jul 29, 2015

Thanks! I never really thought about it like that.

And yea, I can't take any more degree required courses b/c the prereq courses for the other classes are the classes I'll be taking this fall.