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Register for classes
Usually after you get your application accepted (and have made a deposit if required) you need to register for classes.
Sometimes you’ll need to find out if you have an advisor and who it will be. My experience with advisors has been a mixed bag. Some have been extremely helpful and ready to help and some others have been what you might call lazy and less than eager to assist.
It will help you and your advisor if you have a good idea of the classes you want, or need, to take. Furthermore, some institutions have fairly definite plans for the course of studies for the freshman and sophomores. They usually prefer the general education requirements to be done first, and then let you focus more on the courses leading into your chosen major (you were able to pick a major weren’t you?).
Keep in mind that a lot of students change their major after their first, second or third year. So if you don’t know what you want to major in, don’t be ashamed! There are plenty of undecided students. When asked for your major, just say” undecided”. Sometimes, being undecided can be fun as there are professors who will try to convince you that their chosen field is best. I had a sociologist instructor who asked if there was a chance he could convince me to major in sociology. I said there was a chance (albeit a small one).
Also, be aware that there may be other requirements to be fulfilled before you are allowed to register for classes. For instance, you may be required to have medical information on file with the college before you can register. Or you may be required to attend an orientation, etc. This varies from place to place.
Add/Drop
After registering for class there is a period of time in which you can add or drop courses with no academic repercussions. Usually you will need to find the Student Records office or a similar administrative office and take care of business with them.
Withdraw
If you have taken a class and have gotten too far behind and feel that you cannot handle it, you can always withdraw from the class (before the withdraw date is passed). This means you can remove yourself from a class and avoid a possible failing or poor grade.
However, there are occasional various academic repercussions for withdrawing from a class. Sometimes the class will count as an incomplete and other times it might go down as a failure until you can pass it. Either way, remember that withdrawing is an option, but it is not one you want to exercise all that much. |
