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Things to Consider When Registering for Classes

Making your schedule can be a very stressful time for a college student. It determines how much free time you’ll have, and when you need to drag yourself out of bed each morning for class. Before you head over to the registration office, keep these things in mind:

What classes do you need? While this isn’t the most fun thing to address first, it is the most important. Talk with your academic advisor to set out a road map for graduation. Chances are there are certain classes you must take before taking other classes. These need to get on the schedule first, even if they are first thing Monday morning.

When do you learn best? Maybe you want to get all of your classes out of the way in the morning so you have the afternoon to party study. This is a wonderful plan unless you aren’t able to get up for the classes when you need to. If you’re not a morning person, it is best to schedule your classes later in the day when you’ll be more likely to attend alert.

Do you often leave town on weekends? If so, it might be best to work your schedule so that you’re out early or you don’t have class altogether on Fridays. This will lead to less class skipping and epic weekends.

What class will keep you sane? It is a good idea to take a class each semester just for enjoyment. If you love cooking, try taking a beginning pastry class. If you’re a movie buff take something in film. Want to burn some extra calories? College is a great time to take tennis lessons.

Do your homework on professors. Talk with other students or visit sites like ratemyprofessors.com to read up on the teachers at your school. This could be the difference between a really great class, and monotone lectures for several hours a week.

Are you employed? If you have a job already, it would be very helpful to ask your boss when they’d like you to be available to work and create your schedule around that. If you aren’t currently working but intent to start looking for a job, be sure to leave consistent gaps in your schedule open. If you’re out of classes every day by 1:00 it will be pretty easy for your job to work you into their schedule.

What is your current schedule like? If you work all the time or have a lot of social or other demands, it might be best to consider taking classes online. You’ll be able to “attend” class on your terms and many courses allow you to take them at your own pace. This is a great option for students who may already be working full time or going through major life changes, such as planning a wedding or having a baby.

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