In the halls of 30 West 16th Street, the beginning of each year brings forth new changes. One of the most noteworthy changes so far this year has been the introduction of a new academic schedule. This eight-day schedule replaces the six-day schedule of years prior, and it includes two class days that consist of four 75-minute classes. Among the changes that this new schedule hopes to make possible an intensive focus on in-depth learning during the longer class days, which will allow students and faculty to delve deeper into topics that they may be unable to pursue otherwise. The E-News caught up with Eamonn Matthews ’15 to talk about the new schedule. Read further for an illuminating student response to these new changes!

What do you think of the new schedule so far?

Eamonn Matthews ’15: I’m really enjoying it so far. As a senior, I’ve been really busy with class and college applications so one of the benefits of the new schedule is that even though classes are longer on certain days, our free periods are also longer. Though we’re assigned more work for each of these days, we’re also afforded more free time to complete our work in advance. I believe that as the year goes on, I’ll be better able to finish my work during free periods and not be swamped when I come home from school.

How are classes on longer days different from the same classes on shorter days? What have you done so far in these new classes?

EM: There’s been much more experimentation. One of my teachers said that we are going to have to experiment during these new class periods, to see what works and what doesn’t. So far we have discussed material we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise, engaged in more group work and discussion with fellow classmates, and watched informative videos that have provided visual accompaniment to what we learn on the other days.

How do you think people will adjust to the new schedule?

EM: Students and teachers have to step up their game and understand the challenges of a 75-minute class. In class, students will have to maintain their focus for a longer period of time, and teachers will have to incorporate enough material to meet such demands.

Do you believe that the new schedule is advantageous for Xavier as a college preparatory school?

EM: After experiencing this schedule for a year, I think I will definitely be better off for college. Classes will likely be longer in college, and it will be good to experience instruction such instruction at an in-depth level for an extended duration.

Thanks, Eamonn, and best of luck to all acclimating to the new schedule!