Subject: TRiO: Tips for Selecting Classes in College

Talent Search & Upward Bound
Tips for Selecting Classes in College
One of the most exciting aspects of starting college is selecting which courses to take. Do you ever find yourself struggling to roll out of bed for school in the morning? No worries. Afternoon, evening, or online classes may be a better fit for you. 

Unlike high school, universities offer hundreds of different classes to chose from. For instance, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offer classes like: 

  • Severe/Hazardous Weather 
  • Mythology of Greece and Rome 
  • African American Families in Film 
  • Ice Skating 
  • Diversity & Social Justice Education
  • Dance 
  • American Sign Language 
  • Weight Lifting 
  • Hip Hop Feminism 
  • Swahili 
and much more!

The following class examples are considered electives for most students. It is important to note that while these classes are interesting and fun, they may not relate to your specific major. When registering for classes, aim to only take the required amount of elective credits so that you can take classes that will put you on the track towards graduating on time.


Sad about having class on Fridays?
I have some great news for you...

In college, you have the freedom to arrange your schedule however you want. You can arrange your schedule so that you only have class 3-4 days a week. If you choose to have class 3-4 days a week, make sure that your classes are enough credit hours per semester in order to maintain your full time status and/or financial aid assistance.

For example, some scholarships require you to enroll in school full time taking a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester in order to be considered eligible. 

Helpful Tips for Selecting Classes
  • Check out all of your class options
  • Meet with your advisor to make sure your classes fulfill graduation requirements 
  • Talk with your advisor about using AP & IB credit
  • Focus on completing your general education requirements first
  • Register for your classes early to secure your spot before the class fills up
  • Talk to upperclassmen for their recommendations on courses and professors 
  • Create a schedule that works best for you; don't sign up for 8am classes if you know you'll miss class most days 
  • Avoid taking on unreasonably heavy course loads (this will prevent burnout)
Check out the sample schedule below

Please note: This schedule does not include summer sessions. Students that take classes during the summer are more likely to fulfill general education requirements at an accelerated pace. 

Additionally, students that choose a math or science related major may be required to take more advanced math courses. 
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