Written by Marina Lamanna
A lot of students here complain about the "Drexel Shaft" screwing up their scheduling or billing, or how poor their teachers are. The truth is that you will find red tape headaches and poor teachers at just about every university. Even at the top universities, students complain that teachers of freshman-level classes are terrible. I've had first-rate teachers during my time here, even in some 100-level classes. Co-op scheduling can be spoiled by administrative error ("Drexel Shaft") easily, but if you stay on top of things, and be proactive, you can work things out. The Drexel co-op is Drexel's strongest selling point, and many students come here specifically for that program. Some can't wait to graduate and zip through their classes, concentrating more on their co-op, as they feel it gives them more valuable experience. This vocational approach of the student works against the joy of the college learning experience. Most students are so focused on graduating quickly, and learning tasks during co-op that will get them a better job, that they scoff at the idea of taking electives in other academic concentrations, which they might enjoy or which could make them a more well-rounded person, or more attractive to potential employers.
The hurry to graduate is mostly because of the fact that co-ops usually require students to stay at Drexel for five years. Students load up on courses when they are in school, try just to pass them, and complete their programs as soon as possible. A lot of students miss Drexel's opportunities this way, but most students are glad they went to Drexel in the end. The co-op is an invaluable experience that puts our students ahead in the job race after graduation (it also pays you big bucks while you're here).