UCLA will soon consider changing from a quarter to a
semester system. Which academic calendar system would you
prefer? Patricia Milder Second-year
Communications studies “I like the quarter system because you
get to take more classes, like GEs ““ and classes you
don’t like you can get over with faster, so you don’t
get bored. And honestly, it’s cool that spring break is
between quarters instead of in the middle of the semester. But I
think I’m just used to the quarter system, and it’d be
too hard to adjust to it now.” Anand Kumar
Third-year Philosophy “I like the quarter system simply
because you can take more classes. It may seem like your professor
is speeding through the class in the quarter system, but a good TA
will help a lot. TAs are important in the quarter system because
you can go to them to learn what you missed in class. But in some
upper division classes, where you don’t have a TA, it can be
a problem.” Kristy Dalrymple First-year
Aerospace engineering “I prefer the quarter system because I
came from a block schedule in high school and it prepared me to
study continuously between many different subjects. I’m used
to working very quickly and getting a lot done in a year, and the
quarter system keeps me going and I get a lot more done.”
Nate Osborne Fourth-year Communications studies
“In the semester system, you can learn more and not be so
rushed through your classes. You’re here to learn and not
just to regurgitate information. A semester system means less
memorization and more applying and retaining knowledge. In the
quarter system, classes are too short ““ the information is
rushed and the level of knowledge is an inch deep and a mile
wide.” Speaks out compiled by Edward Chiao, Daily Bruin
Senior Staff. Photos by Michael Mantel, Daily Bruin
Contributor.