How do I choose which classes I want to take my first semester in college?

Hi Aisha,

This is a great question. Deciding what classes to take and creating your semester schedule every semester is not an easy choice as there are so many options and many of the classes are interesting, When I was creating my first semester schedule, I was so overwhelmed and had no idea where I should start. After asking around I decided to start with the required classes at first. For every major, there are going to be required classes as well as general categories of classes that you will have to pick from. I would say to start with the required courses for your major as this will allow you to take the classes you actually want to take later in your college career. I really focused my first two years of college on knocking all of the general education requirements and major requirements out of the way which allowed me to study abroad and take the classes I actually wanted during part of my Junior year and almost all of my Senior year.

Take a look at your major and general education requirements to decide what classes you need to take. Start with the introductory courses as these are required courses needed to take the higher level courses. By establishing a base of required courses, you will free yourself up for later as well as be allowed to take the more advanced courses when you decide to do so.

I hope this helps you out and I wish you the best of luck!!

Best,

Austin

Aisha, I'm sure there will be many different thoughts about your question. I recommend you do take those classes that interest you! College is not just about plowing forward in your major, but also learning other about other areas. Getting a well rounded experience isn't something to avoid.  Taking these other classes could also take you in a different direction. My major changed after taking an economics class.  

Take classes you have interest in. Get involved with extracurricular activities as time allows. Meet new people. Network.  Get the fullest college experience possible! Enjoy the ride

Hi Aisha,

You've received some great advice so I'll just add my two cents. At my college, freshmen were the last to register, and therefore had a hard time getting into prerequisite classes. If you are able to get into those classes, by all means take them. However, balance those classes with classes you find fun and interesting. You may find that you enjoy the prerequisites, thus validating your choice of intended major. Alternatively, you may find that your intended major isn't all that interesting to you! Either way, its better to find that out in your first couple of years, than after you've already been accepted to a major you don't love. Balancing prerequisite classes with classes you find fun and interesting is a good way to avoid that last minute change of major that so many students go through.

I hope this helps, and good luck with your first semester!