The leaves are falling, and it’s getting colder in Moscow. Students are preparing for snow, but that isn’t the only thing around the corner.
Spring semester is only two months away. Registration begins Nov. 6 and you’re forced to decide what classes to enroll in. Not sure what classes to sign up for even though you talked to your adviser? Don’t worry — take a look at these tips first.
Majors and minors
Every major or minor is different in its own way. It is great to seek advice in other students and your professors, but it is generally best to listen to an adviser in your main area of study.
Lindsay Trombly | Argonaut
Although you should take classes that feel like the right fit for you, treat the expertise they give you like the Bible. Even though a well-rounded education includes varying topics, there is not always much wiggle room when signing up for your major classes. Without these courses, the degree you work so hard for won’t come to fruition.
When you sign up for classes, make sure that you plan them in a cohesive order. Some classes are only offered once a year or once every two years. Plan ahead and keep track of those schedules. Otherwise you could be stuck not being able to take those classes you need and will risk staying in school longer then you really need to.
General intrigue
English, communication, science, math — these are just a few courses that meet the criteria you have to fulfill in your general education. These classes essentially check off the main boxes on your degree audit. Take what classes you can and when you can’t take many classes geared toward your major, get your general education requirements out of the way. This will make for a much easier class load later on.
Even though general education classes might seem boring, they are more interesting than we often give them credit for. Pick out classes that interest you, and some of them may surprise you.
While taking classes that interest you, also pick out a variety of topics to study, and things that you might actually enjoy. Sometimes these classes lead you to a path you didn’t plan on taking for the rest of your life. Most of all take things that interest you, and don’t overload yourself. Take on the amount of credits that you know you can succeed in, and to the point where other classes don’t suffer.
Research
Before signing up for classes, do the research needed to fully understand the course load. Ask people about specific professors, and ask them if they enjoyed the class. You don’t want to be surprised walking into a class, and realize it isn’t for you.
When registration opens and the nerves hit you, just remember these tips and get excited for the semester ahead.
Lindsay Trombly can be reached at [email protected]