My Favourite Electives at UOttawa

As I'm heading into my last semester at the University of Ottawa in January, I thought I would share some of my favourite electives in case you're considering one for next semester or even next year. With so many options, it can be hard to choose an elective that is both fun and educational. Read on for my top three picks that I think anyone could benefit from taking. 

Elective #1: ADM 4326 - Digital Marketing Technologies 

I couldn't make a blog post about electives to take at the University of Ottawa without including the class that allowed me to make this blog in the first place. This class pleasantly surprised me! Not only was I able to create my own website and blog, but every week, there was a guest speaker who came in to share their career journey and give advice/tips for us aspiring students. Having your own website not only allows you to make content and showcase your personal brand, but it will also benefit you when looking for a job in the future. Furthermore, guest speakers give you the opportunity to connect and build relationships. 

With that said, I recommend taking this class with Professor Jonathan Simon as I can't guarantee the class will be the same with another teacher. He wants his students to learn digital marketing by doing digital marketing which is why the class has a hands-on approach. Definitely check it out if digital marketing is something that interests you! 

Elective #2: CMN 3144 - Public Relations 

Regardless of which faculty you are in, this is a class that can benefit anyone who aspires to work in the corporate world someday. It covers some essential topics such as what to do and what not to do during a communications crisis, how to maintain corporate image and identity, fake news, and how to write a press release. 

I would recommend taking this class with Professor Diane Riddell as she is very passionate about the material and has many years of experience and knowledge in the field. She also greets every single student at the start of class and generally cares about your career interests and success in this course and beyond. In addition, there were a couple of guest speakers who spoke to us throughout the semester that offered valuable insight and advice.

If public relations or communications is something you have thought about maybe pursuing as a career, or if you'd like to gain some valuable knowledge on the topics mentioned above, I recommend checking out this course!

Elective #3: CLA 2323 - Greek Mythology

I know what you're thinking,  Greek mythology, really? But, you may be surprised by how many times Greek myths are referenced in your other classes. There's a reason why Greek myths are still talked about today. This is because they help us to make sense of things that cannot be explained, such as how the world came to be. They are also stories and that makes them exciting and easily passed down and retold to future generations. 

I would recommend taking this course with Dr. Laura Gagne. She is also very passionate about the subject matter which keeps you engaged. Also, since she is an archeologist, her work has brought her to several locations mentioned in class, and she includes these photos from her travels in the lecture slides. 

If you're looking for a class that is a mix of history and art, this one is for you!

I hope at least one of these electives has sparked your interest! I'd love to hear from you if you decide to enrol in one or more - I'd be more than happy to offer you some tips for success! Check out the University of Ottawa electives without prerequisites webpage for even more ideas! 

Happy Holidays everyone! Until next time!