So you want the “perfect” course schedule. You might never be totally satisfied with all your classes, but there’s no reason to stress out.
Know your personal schedule. If you prefer morning classes but your roommate stays up until 2am every night, it will make it very difficult to get to class by 8. They key is to figure out what type of schedule works for you.
Sign up for at least one extra class. This way you can check out the syllabus for a class you’re interested in or get a feel for a professor. Don’t forget the drop deadline!
Don’t be afraid to drop a class you’re not interested in, especially if it doesn’t relate to your major. Give the class a chance, but it’s important to recognize when it’s just not working out. If it’s a required class, check to see if you could take it another semester or with a different professor.
Know the deadlines. You don’t want to be stuck with an extra class, so make sure to drop any classes on time. Also be sure to check your scholarship or financial aid package to see how many credits you need to take each semester so you don’t end up dropping too many classes.
Look up your professors on ratemyprofessors.com before signing up. If you’re checking out a professor teaching a required class, you could find out what you’re in for. If you’re deciding between two professors, the ratings could sway your decision.
Plan ahead. Some classes need to be taken in a series and some could be taken any time. A little planning can go a long way and save you a headache in the future.
Don't take all your required classes in one semester. Some majors will have a lot of dry required classes. To help you keep your sanity, spread them out over several semesters instead of trying to take them all at once.
Take a “fun” class at least once a year. This could be anything from a one or two credit gym or dance class to a language or astronomy course. The point is to not get too overwhelmed with studying only the subject you think you’re going to major in.
A big part of getting closer to having the “perfect” schedule is to choose a major you like. So if you’re not excited about any of the courses on your list, maybe it’s time to think about changing your major.
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