As the school year comes to an end, we have the opportunity to register for classes for the following year. Naturally, this seems like the rudest thing the school could do to us, considering that I'm already drowning in this semester's classes. How could they possibly think I want to plan my death out for next year?
However, despite registration being the worst time of year, there can be several ways that you can make it easier to get all the classes you need in time for next semester. Here are my tips and tricks to registering for classes.
1. Know the requirements for your major.
Everyone's major is different and requires that you take different classes for each. While this is a blessing and also a curse, you need to make sure you graduate on time and that means you must fulfill all the requirements. If you forget even one little small class, you could find yourself as a 5th year. There probably will be some dumb classes you'll be forced to take no matter what, but just make sure you're aware of what's in store for your future years.
2. Plan all your classes in advance.
Something that I find really useful is coursicle.com to create my schedule. They have exact times and classes that are found in your school, and can even notify you when a seat in a class opens up. Know what classes you're interested in taking, and see if they offer it in the upcoming semester.
Chances are, they probably do. Try and figure out what you might be involved in next semester so you can plan your classes around those times, like a job or clubs. By doing this, you'll minimize the amount of time you have to spend on the course catalog right before your registration time and gives you a better chance at getting the classes and times you want.
3. Try to finesse your way into getting an easier registration time slot.
This might not be a trick meant for the rookies, but definitely try and get a better registration slot! You might be able to talk to your advisor and get him/her to agree to give you an easier slot. Student assistance offices usually have the ability to move up your time slot. And if not, you can try and speak to professors about reserving a seat in a class, which guarantees you the spot no matter what.
4. Have your classes ready to go in your shopping cart/enrollment cart.
This goes along with planning your classes in advance, but make sure that you have all your classes ready and prepared before your time slot. Keep them in the shopping cart way before your time slot if possible. This makes it easier during the day of, so you can click one button and be done with it in just under a minute.
5. Don't be afraid to approach your advisor.
Although the advising office is a frenzy during registration week, it is a good idea to get a second opinion and speak to someone who's well-educated in what you're studying. Plus, if it doesn't work out with a class, advisors can give you great advice on how to move forward. I was definitely scared to use this resource, but it's more helpful than you think it is. They usually have drop-in hours throughout registration week so don't be scared to go in and say hi!
Although this is the most frustrating time of the school year, it can be made just a tad bit simpler. Either way, you probably will be unhappy with at least one class on your schedule, and it's better to know ahead of time. Is it too late to rewind and go back to high school?
