Developing Your Schedule

You actually need to develop two different types of schedules: a long-term schedule that includes all the courses you need to complete your degree, and a semester or quarter schedule that lists what courses you are going to take for the next semester. Obviously, you need to make sure that your quarterly or semester schedule moves you closer to your goal of finishing school. You might even make a list of the classes you need to take so you can check them off as you go along. Some things to keep in mind as you plan your schedule include:

• Prerequisite classes. Are there any classes you need to take before you can take other classes?

• Irregular classes. Some classes aren't offered every semester. You need to grab these classes when they are available.

• Popular classes. Some classes are just hard to get into because the professor is well-known or well-liked or the class is required by several programs. Make sure you sign up early for these classes.

• Hard classes. Some classes are just harder than others. If you are taking a class with a reputation for being tough, try to pair it with easier classes that semester.

Don't count on your advisor to always know what you need to take and when you need to take it. Do your homework and lay out your own schedule. But if you do have questions about which class to take, especially when it comes to electives, be sure to ask your advisor's opinion.