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       Registration can be a difficult time for those incoming freshmen. Lots of classes need to be taken in four years and these courses typically come with prerequisites making them available to you later on in your college career. Here are a few helpful tips on how to make your schedule fit your needs:

• Get a list of your major’s and minor’s requirements. These are usually handed out during freshman orientation or registration and can be found online or picked up at the Department Chair’s office. This list is a must for planning future semester classes.
• Figure out which classes within your major or minor fulfill other requirements.  Many schools require students to take fine arts credits and science credits to help them be a bit well rounded. Review the list of classes your major or minor requires and see if any of these also fulfill other requirements. This will stop you from taking unnecessary classes.

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• Make a list of all the classes you need and want to take with their prerequisites. Look at the list of classes you need to take and look at their prerequisites. Some classes can only be taken with an upperclassmen standing or if you have previously taken another class in that field. Figure out and make a timeline on when you can take certain classes.
• Cross-reference the times of those classes. Watch out because some classes conflict with one another. Look for the same classes at other times or for other required classes you can take. Schedulizer is a savvy tool for figuring this out.

• Don’t avoid morning or late night classes. I know it is difficult to wake up for 8am classes or to be in class until 10pm, but it must be done. Make a little sacrifice and start good habits for a good cause. It’s only your future you are dealing with.

If you really plan out your schedules well and ahead of the curve, you can graduate early. While this not everyone’s goal, it is something to think about for those paying for their own education.

For other helpful tips for freshmen, check out: Top 5 Freshmen Do’s And Don’ts! By classy co-ed Shaniece Sanford.