Navigating MIT’s Swimming Requirement: A Personal Journey
Attending a prestigious institution like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you come from a background where certain physical activities were not familiar to you. The swimming requirement at MIT may seem like a significant hurdle, but with the right resources and support, it can be overcome.
If You Don’t Know How to Swim and Attend MIT
MIT requires its students to demonstrate basic swimming proficiency for graduation. This means that every student must show they can swim a certain distance. But what if you have never swum in your life and are not even considered athletic? Let's explore the options available and share a personal story of navigating this requirement.
Swimming Requirement
MIT has a swimming requirement for graduation. This means that students must demonstrate basic swimming proficiency. While this might seem intimidating, there are several solutions available to help you meet this requirement.
Swimming Courses at MIT
MIT offers swimming courses for beginners, making it accessible for anyone looking to learn. These classes are typically offered several times a week and are taught by experienced instructors. The curriculum is designed to cater to students of all skill levels, helping them acquire the necessary skills to pass the swim test.
Alternative Options
If you have a medical condition or other valid reasons that prevent you from swimming, you can petition for an exemption. It’s important to communicate with the appropriate academic or administrative offices to explore this option. Additionally, if you are unable to engage in swimming due to a condition, you can work with your academic advisor to find an alternative way to fulfill this requirement.
Campus Resources
MIT provides various resources to help students meet the swimming requirement. The Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center is one such resource, equipped with a pool and offering recreational swimming times. Participating in such activities can also be a great way to meet other students, fostering a sense of community.
Social Opportunities
Engaging in swimming classes or clubs not only helps you meet the swimming requirement but also provides a great social outlet. You can make new friends and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're there for the swimming or the social aspect, these activities can be enriching experiences.
A Personal Story
I attended MIT for one year for a Master’s degree. Prior to starting my studies, I had never swum before, and I was not particularly athletic. Despite feeling intimidated, I took the leap and enrolled in a swimming class. The class met a couple of times a week, typically around two or three sessions. While I certainly felt uneasy about it, it wasn't overly dreadful. What I remember most vividly is the communal shower, which was a first for me. Gradually, I became able to swim in a feeble but splashy manner. With persistence, I managed to get to the other side of the pool and passed the swimming requirement.
To graduate, you have the option to take a swimming class. Passing the class will satisfy the swim test graduation requirement. Every student needs 8 PE (physical education) credits to graduate, typically 2 points each for a half-semester course. With MIT's limited sports budget, popular classes like sailing or pistol may be oversubscribed. To ensure a spot, you participate in a lottery system where you rank your top 4-5 choices. Juniors and seniors are given more preference, as they have a tighter graduation timeline. If you have not yet passed the swim test, you are given additional preference for swimming classes.
So, turn up to your first PE choice—beginner's swim class—and give it your best shot. The key is to be persistent and to make the most of the resources and support available. Whether you are intimidated or feel empowered, remember that passing the swim test is just a small part of your larger academic journey at MIT.