Earning a degree from the University is not as simple as collecting 120 credits and waltzing into commencement ceremonies at Michigan Stadium.
Students must first fulfill a host of requirements.
LSA requires that students achieve fourth semester proficiency in a foreign language.
"Some of the classes that I have to take are a pain," said LSA sophomore Jennifer Banks. "I can't ever imagine using French after I graduate."
Other students see the requirement as an opportunity.
"I think the (language) requirement gives us exposure to cultures that we would not otherwise learn about," said LSA senior Andrew Wilson.
Students can avoid the four-semester requirement by doing well on language placement tests, which they take during orientation.
LSA also requires its students to fulfill a one-class "race and ethnicity" requirement. These classes are designed to increase students' awareness about racial and cultural issues.
Quantitative Reasoning is another requirement for LSA students. QR classes are designed to give students numerical, computational and geometric skills.
LSA students are required to complete a course in English Composition. Placement for these courses depends on an evaluation of the portfolio that all accepted students must submit.
Additionally, LSA requires students to complete an area distribution. This requisite is designed to expose students to a wide range of subjects and give them intellectual depth.
LSA Director of Academic Information Bob Wallin said the distribution requirement for the class of 2001 is different from that of its predecessors.
"Students are now allowed to take courses in Math Symbolic Analysis and Creative expression in addition to Natural Science, Social Science and Humanities in order to fulfill the 30-credit requirement," Wallin said.
As a general rule, first-year students should take whatever classes interest them - they will unwittingly fulfill some of the requirements mounted against them.
Also, it is important to keep in mind that many advanced-placement credits that students earn in high school can be transferred to help fulfill the requirements, so students should have little trouble amassing their 120 credits and moving on to greener pastures.