PRIOR to arriving at summer orientation, a high-school friend and I collaborated one afternoon to plan our individual class schedules for our first semester at the University. Like many first years, we meticulously selected interesting classes taught at the right times, by recommended professors, in preferred classroom locations on Grounds. However, by the time I exited the computer lab in Bryan Hall, I had successfully registered for only one of the seven classes (five preferred and two backups) that I had expected. Many incoming students may be subject to a similar experience, but don't give up! Despite initial frustrations in the process, incoming students should be reminded not to become discouraged. Course registration is a continuous process that takes time and persistence.
The first time many new students - especially in the College - begin to organize their schedule, they follow the familiar process from high school. They pick a science, math, history, language and "elective" course. Though the college does have area requirements that must be filled, students should remember to try new things and experiment in disciplines that could be considered off the beaten path. Basic first-year level courses in calculus, chemistry, government and economics - among others - are frequently the first to fill up. If a student has a strong interest in one or more of these disciplines, then they should be encouraged to pursue their curiosity. Some courses that might be considered "off the beaten path" may yield a higher success rate when registering, and offer the same if not greater intellectual stimulation as the more popular subjects.
However, if the student finds the perfect course that immediately sparks his interest or a prerequisite that opens the door to more guided study in the department, yet the course is full, there are several options for him to pursue before giving up on the class altogether.
First, persistence is key. After summer registration for incoming students is complete, online registration will open back up to all students. There is a great deal of jockeying around as upperclass students rearrange their schedules in favor of classes that meet at preferred times or seek to resolve conflicts between time slots. As this occurs, opening will form - if only for a brief period of time - in the sought-after course. Continue to check the online directory for available spots.
Second, e-mail the professor of the course and ask if there is a waiting list, and if so, if your name might be added. Professors prefer students who are driven and display a true interest in the subject. Feel free to offer special qualifications for the course, or unique prerequisites that make you a particularly competitive candidate for the class.
Third, once you are on the waiting list, show up on the first day, even if you aren't officially registered. Many students who are registered may not show up, and that often frees spaces for professors to add you in. Also, jockeying in schedules continues through the first two weeks of class. If you fight to get into a class, you want to be sure you aren't behind in the subject material. Missing the first two classes often can make it impossible to catch up on all the schoolwork.
Recall that the registration process is very fluid and that it takes a bit of practice to master. That first semester I ended up getting into four of those seven classes I wanted. The other three were completely elusive. Remember that you have eight semesters to fit in all the courses you can imagine. That is more than enough time to explore whatever you desire. If at first you don't build the dream schedule, give it a year or two. The more credits you accrue, the higher the priority you will receive when it comes time to select classes. The University offers countless courses every semester. If you go into the process with an open mind and persistent spirit, no matter what, you will leave the University with an education well worth the trouble.
(Preston Lloyd is a Cavalier Daily columnist. He can be reached at plloyd@cavalierdaily.com.)
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