Getting through the add/drop period can be stressful. Not only are you adjusting to being back at school, but you also have to make smart decisions about your classes. In just a short week you have to decide if you picked the right courses and professors and whether you want to stick with the classes you chose or try to find new ones that fit into your packed schedule better. In order to avoid the stress and to make smart decisions during the add/drop period, try these five things!
1. Pay attention to the dates!
Remember that this year’s add/drop period is September 2nd – September 11th. This means that you have nine days (seven school days) to add or drop a class without receiving a W (withdrawal) mark on your official Rutgers transcript. Seven days allows for one or two classes - depending on the structure of the class - for you to make a decision about staying in the course or dropping it.
2. Be alert and awake!
Make sure you are mentally present in class for the first week so that you can properly judge the course. I was once so tired during the first week of classes that I misjudged a professor completely. I missed my chance to withdrawal without a W and suffered through the class (and my professor mumbling through lectures) for the rest of the semester. Don’t let this happen to you! Pay attention for the first week of classes so that you can make good decisions.
3. Talk to an advisor!
If you are having difficulty deciding if a class is right for you, talk to one of the many advisors available on campus. There is a general advising office as well as advisors that can be more specific towards your field of study. If you are hesitant about a class, make sure you make an appointment as soon as possible because the advisors become booked very quickly during this time of year.
4. Talk to other students!
Other students are a great resource when trying to decide whether or not to stay in a class. If you can find a student who has taken the course before they will be able to tell you more about what you may be struggling with (i.e. the professor, the material, what it means in terms of your major). They can also give you helpful hints about how to get through the semester and what to expect while in the class.
5. Stay calm!
Things may seem crazy during this week, but the stress will die down eventually and everything will be okay. Panicking about your classes will only make the situation worse. You might not end up with your ideal situation, but as long as you remain calm and attend your classes, you will be fine.
The add/drop period can be an intimidating time, but just remember to pay attention to the dates, stay awake in class, talk to advisors and other students, and stay calm throughout the week. You may not end up with your preferred agenda or ideal professors, but everything will work out in the long run. Just take it one day at a time. The add/drop period will be over soon and then you can focus on your school work and fall into your weekly routine. Good luck with choosing you classes. I know you will have a great semester!
