Choosing the "Right" Classes
Selecting classes shouldn't be confusing and overwhelming. At its worst, it feels like throwing darts or spinning a wheel. You just hope you get something good.
It doesn't have to be this way! Our advisors help you choose a broad, interesting schedule that we hope makes you excited for what's possible.
Check your Sample Plan
Look for the first class to get started. Most plans list foundational courses you have to take first for a major. Once you have those, look to see if classes are "sequenced" (you have to take one before another) or if you have to take particular subject areas as pre-reqs to more advanced courses.
Take Something Interesting
Classes you think sound interesting likely are. These could lead to additional majors, minors, certificates or research ideas. As a bonus - students who are interested in a class's content get better grades on average.
You're Not Wasting Time
Because of A&S general education (GE) requirements, every A&S class you take counts toward your degree. As a result, explore! Take a risk on a class way outside of your major. You might be surprised where it can take you.
"Especially with the new general education, it's really easy to pick and choose things that you would never take and use them to explore. I tell students, if you don't know what it is, take the intro. It could be your next passion."
Emily Wassel
Classics & History, 2019
Faculty Course Questionnaires
Each semester, students evaluate how they felt about a class. You can use these results to help you determine if the workload and instructor's ratings make the class more or less appealing.
Prioritize Class Importance
Prioritize sequenced classes, since missing these can push your graduation back. Figure out when and where these are, then build around them.
Create Contingency Plans
Your highest priority class might fill. Pick another time the course is offered and build around it. Then repeat it until you have schedules around each section's time.