So this week I registered for classes for next semester. Each semester it is the same scary and nerve racking process that determines my workload, my fulfilled requirements, and ultimately, the road towards graduation. I have learned from my own mistakes, and I hope you will keep these in mind as you yourself register for classes, or if you already have, preparing yourself more for the following registration nightmare.
1. Breathe.
Freaking out will not help with choosing classes. In fact, it will just make you more stressed that you are stressed. So first thing's first, sit down with a nice cup of tea and take a deep breath because you got this!
2. Check to See Which Classes Are Needed
It is a waste of time to take classes that you do not need for you major or minor. Just because a course is in the area of your study, it does not mean that it is required. Look up a list of required courses to take and get them out of the way.
3. Make at Least Three Mock Schedules
It always seems that if something can go wrong during registration, it will. Almost every time I have registered for classes, I haven't been able to take a class because the seats were already filled, and then I had to frantically search for other classes I could take instead to take 15 credits. My advice to you is to find as many back up classes as you can and make different schedules accordingly. Find different sections of the class and play around with the times. Be prepared for the worst!
4. Rate My Professor
If there is more than one professor for a class, look up what past students have had to say about them on www.ratemyprofessor.com. This will allow you to see which professor is better, who gives less homework, and which class you would enjoy the most. Or if there is only one professor for the class and they are not that great, at least a warning before you take the class.
5. Make Sure You Have No Holds
Before you go to register, make sure there are no holds against your account. I checked ahead of time and had a $10 fee for something, and if I did not see that, I would have been late registering for classes over a matter of $10. If there is a major miscalculation with your financial aid, it is better to know a month in advance rather than while you are trying to register.
6. Meet With Your Adviser
It is beneficial to have someone else look over your mock schedules and make sure you are taking the right classes. Even if you do not think you need it, they can help. Also, you may have to obtain a pin number from them in order to register, so it does not hurt to make sure. Just schedule an appointment early because everyone else will be trying to do the same thing as you!
7. Be On Time!
If you have class during the time of your registration period, simply ask the professor to step outside for a few minutes to do so. None of my professors have ever had a problem with it. Just ask before the start of class instead of two minutes before your time opens. You want to be ready to go as soon as the minute changes because odds are, there are dozens of other students who have the same time as you and need to get into the same classes, especially for general education classes.
8. Don't Panic
It is over before you know it. Just have those CRN numbers handy!
9. You're Done!
Congrats and good luck with the next semester!
