There may be some courses you need to take to fulfill graduation requirements. Some may go towards your major. It can be tough in the beginning to plan a course schedule. Consider your own habits. That can help in deciding which classes to take and when. It’s possible to create a balance even while taking classes that are required. Here are five tips for planning, which will enhance your college experience as a freshman.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Choosing college classes doesn’t mean you have to overwhelm yourself. If you’re first adjusting, set up a schedule that allows for the coursework you can handle. Students must also consider commute time, their social life, and employment. Also, classes may be more difficult than you expect, and more time may be needed for studying. You must dedicate time for rest as well.
2. Balance Your Requirements with Electives
Your college schedule can easily fill up with general education and major-related courses. Keep in mind general classes are foundational. You’ll need the information you learn for later on. Still, elective courses shouldn’t be put off. Saving time for one or two early on can introduce you to new subjects and open up your mind to different topics. Who knows; you may someday end up with a masters in gerontology.
3. Account for Your Learning Style
Knowing yourself should help when building a course schedule. If you’re not a morning person, you wouldn’t want to sign up for the first class of the day at Dartmouth College. You have the option of starting your coursework later in the morning. In college, your schedule may include evening classes and large breaks during the day – few hours in between can be used for naps or part-time work. When there is a choice when to schedule classes, think about your learning style and habits.
4. Consult with Advisors
An academic advisor can help plan your class schedule. Their feedback can help determine if it is realistic or not and include personalized guidance that can go beyond the current semester. Don’t plan your schedule alone when there are professionals there to help and guide you. Even a course professor can provide invaluable advice for your semester.
5. Block Time for Extracurricular Activities
Don’t only focus on class time when making your schedule. College is a time to grow and experience many things. There should be time for social activities. As time goes by, you’ll want to have time for internships, research, and student clubs; but put your class schedule first, and then you can set up other activities around that. Also, keep family and friends in mind, so you can let them know when you’re not bogged down with writing papers or studying for exams.