Degrees in a Hurry? Evaluating the Trimester Model
Ever felt like time is slipping through your fingers, but there’s no real way to prove it? One Sunday, you’re gearing up for a brand-new semester, and before you know it, midterms are knocking. Suddenly, you’ve got two quizzes in three days, an assignment due, and your friend’s wedding to attend. Definitely not the ideal situation. It’s something many students face under the trimester academic system used by some universities. Thus the question arises: how different would things be in a six-month semester?
Nafim Karim Khan (Senior, EEE) believes the six-month system works better. He feels the slower pace helps students grasp topics more thoroughly. With more time to breathe, students could prepare properly for exams, while departments could focus on depth instead of cramming content.
They are not perfect however. Some students may lose motivation halfway through, and graduation might take longer than expected. To some individuals, it can be tiring to spend more time with people they don’t vibe with.
On the flip side, fans of the trimester system argue that it helps students adjust to fast-paced work environments. The condensed syllabus pushes you to stay alert and move quickly through your degree.
There is a hefty cost to the speed. Academically struggling students can attest to being overwhelmed by nearly everything. Interestingly, a sophomore from Biotechnology prefers this pressure. They find the constant activity gives them purpose and keeps them focused.
