Scheduling your classes in college is one of most important things you will have to do each semester. Not only is it crucial if you plan to graduate, but proper class scheduling can be the difference between a great semester, and the semester from hell.
Do NOT procrastinate!
We know you are tired of people telling you not to procrastinate, but when it comes to scheduling your classes it is important to remember three simple words, "Do NOT procrastinate!". There are several reasons why you should heed this advice.
- Many of your classes require pre-requisite classes before you are allowed to enroll, and a lot of these "pre-reqs" are fairly common and tend to fill up exceptionally fast. It is crucial to get into these classes so that you can eventually take the upper level classes you need to graduate.
- Popular class times tend to fill up fast, so unless you enjoy taking your classes at 8am, or in the evenings while all your friends are drinking and having a good time, we recommend you schedule classes as soon as you can.
- It is important to be able to have a selection of classes to choose from so that you can pick the classes with the best professors. For more on this, "Tips for College Class Selection".
"Be Prepared"
It is not only important to be sitting at your computer waiting for the first minute that you are allowed to start enrolling in classes, but it also happens to know what classes you SHOULD be enrolling in. As much fun as it is to take a full load of electives that include "Human Sexuality" and "Music History: Life of Tupac", these are most likely not going to help your plan to graduate in under a decade (and if you have student loans the bill will eventually come due for all these wasted classes).
Visit Your Academic Adviser
It is greatly beneficial to your college experience that you schedule an appointment with an academic adviser BEFORE you are allowed to start enrolling in classes to make sure you are on the right path to graduate. Again, it is important to know what classes you need to take, and when they are offered (some classes are only offered in spring or fall semester), so that you can keep on track.
Review the Course Catalog
After you have met with your adviser you should have a list of classes you need to take, and classes that you will have to take in the near future. Now it is your job to find these classes in your course catalog and design your ideal schedule, as well as several back up plans in case classes fill up before you can enroll in them.
Finally… Schedule Your Classes!
You should know now what day and time you will be allowed to enroll in classes. You should be sitting at your computer several minutes before this period with a list of must have classes, as well as your wants, and various back up plans in case your original plans fall through. When the time comes, schedule your classes with the confidence that comes with preparation. Now sit back and drink a beer while all your friends frantically try to enroll in classes that are already full.
