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After 12 years of guidance counselors deciding your class schedule fate (remember that third period lunch at 10:00 a.m?), total control of your semester will finally be yours. At least that's what you think...

Getting a freshman schedule that any high schooler would envy is easier said than done. It takes mastery, calculation, connections, and -- who are we kidding -- it's all about luck! Here's what you should know:

Be realistic. Many schools set up their students' first semester schedule so you still won't be in charge. Plus, don't forget that freshmen are last on the totem pole. You may not get the  

College Classes

  you want right away so make the best of it.

What you should take. It's a good idea to take as many core curriculum classes as possible during your first year, especially if you're not certain on a Major. These College classes are both mandatory and available.

How many credits? Somewhere between the 12-18 credit range is doable, but no more than that is recommended. Watch out for science classes with required labs -- they tend to be more credit hours and intensive.

"I don't wanna' get up early!" Choosing morning or afternoon classes is a matter of preference. Consider your Work schedule, sleeping habits, travel options, and accessibility to campus events. Good hint: However tempting a day or two off may be, don't lump all of your classes into half a week.

Advanced techniques for the determined:
Say there are college classes you absolutely must get into but there are no open spots. What do you do? Ask to be waitlisted but also register for a second-choice course, too. Then, if you have the good fortune of someone dropping your dream class, your in. But be careful: you must drop the back-up class quickly or you may lose a portion of your tuition dollars.

During your waitlist period, meet the professor of the course you want and Stress how much you want to take up. He or she may even pull a few strings for you. Another idea is to ask if you can sit in the class even though you aren't registered. It will show that you're eager, and you'll put yourself in the runner-up position ahead of any other waitlisted students.

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