Snevets announced earlier this week on April 1, 2026 that the university was reinstating its physical education (PE) requirements that it previously let go of back in 2022. This comes as a result of alarming statistics showcasing how the prevalent use of AI can weaken the muscles of the brain. This can have catastrophic consequences in an academic environment, especially one that is as demanding as the tech-based curriculum here and tank the rankings. As a result, the university is reinforcing a mandatory PE requirement for all incoming and returning students, where they would have to register for a minimum of one PE course a semester to fulfill graduation requirements. However, this change is also being implemented during a time of financial constraints and budget cuts, so the PE course offerings will look a little different than previous years. The following is a list of some upcoming courses for PE:
- Swimming 101: Similar to other prestigious colleges, such as Columbia or MIT, Snevets will be bringing back the swim test. However, due to budget cuts, the school is currently unable to fill the Schaefer pool with water, so students will pass their swimming tests by swimming across the Hudson River. For beginner swimmers, instruction will be offered only when there is significant rain for there to be flooding on campus to create a puddle large enough to hold class.
- Running with Tille 4126: For those passionate about running or interested in running, this course will take place in the athletic field during Tille’s snack time. Each runner will have a dog treat on them, and Tille will be unleashed (quite literally), enabling even the slowest of runners to gain momentum and run fast.
- Stairmaster 1000: Students enrolled in this course will be barred from the use of any and all campus elevators. Instead, they will successfully complete this course by taking the stairs across campus. For example, if you live on the 18th floor of “The Towers,” just climb the stairs every time to meet the requirement.
In addition to the listed courses, more will be made available closer to the start of the next academic year. The university has also outlined some rules and exceptions for the PE requirement. Athletes are excused from this requirement as long as they win the highest possible tournament in their sport. Computer Science students are also excused from this requirement due to concerns of odor from making students who already don’t shower participate in intense physical activities. Lastly, Snevets is also creating a hiring committee in order to search for the person who would be the head of the PE department. Composed of faculty, staff, and one student, students are encouraged to apply to be part of the hiring committee by beating Attila in arm wrestling. Applicants will be evaluated on their speed, technique, and strength against Attila. Students can apply using this link.
