by Olivia Kay

Created on: July 23, 2009

Which classes should I take? This question puzzles many college students when it comes to registering for classes before each new semester. There are so many classes to choose from and beyond that, so many sections of every class offered at different times of the day, how do you know which ones to pick?

Most colleges and universities have certain general education courses that all students must take. You can normally find a listing of these courses in a college catalog, usually available both in print or online. It's a good idea to access the school's catalog to familiarize yourself with what general education courses are required as well as what courses are required for your chosen major and minor.

Also, when you register as a student at a college or university, you almost always are assigned an academic adviser. This academic adviser has been assigned the responsibility of helping a certain amount of students, the number varies from university to university, choose their classes each semester and stay on track with completing the requirements for their major program(s) and to assure that these students are on track for graduation. However, these advisers generally have other duties at the college or university as well and it is unlikely that they'll seek their student advisees out. By the time you are in college, it is generally expected that you understand that you have the responsibility of setting up an appointment with your academic adviser before the time you are to begin registering for classes. If you make the time to meet with your advisor; you'll find that they are generally very happy to help guide you as to what classes would be the best to take. This is probably your best resource for guidance when it comes to choosing classes.

When picking classes, you also want to consider your own personal lifestyle. Are you a morning person, do you like to take classes early in the morning or would you rather take afternoon and night classes? Are you in any sports or organizations that demand your time, are there certain times that do not work for you to sign up for classes? Are you going to need to work part-time or full-time while going to school? If so, you may want to schedule classes that will go along with your work schedule. Look at the various options for courses and all of the times that each course is offered and determine which time is best for you, and which time goes along best with the other courses you have to take.

Above all, it's very important to do your research and meet with your adviser early, at least a few weeks before the registration period for the next summer begins, so you are prepared to register at the earliest possible time so you are likely to get into the classes that you'd like or need to take. Some classes fill up faster than others, so the sooner you register, the better off you are.

Choosing college classes can be a daunting task, however if you take the process step by step and seek out the advice of an academic adviser, the process is a great deal more comprehendable and you can get through it with relative ease.

Learn more about this author, Olivia Kay.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.