John Harrison here, and I’m the Advice Nerd. Sitting here at the keyboard, I can’t help thinking that soon I must register for my Fall classes here at Skyline, and I’m still not really sure what I want to take. I really haven’t had time to browse the catalogue, but I know there are some of you out there who have no idea what you’re going to do. I have a few suggestions on how to choose your classes to make your time here at Skyline a bit more comfortable, and maybe a bit shorter.
Find a counselorAlthough I believe in the ability of the students of Skyline to make their own choices and take the classes they think they want, I also think that many become confused by the various requirements for advancement. I wish I had seen a counselor to plan out my time at Skyline. If I had, I think I might have a few more credits under my belt and the potential for an earlier transfer. Seeing a counselor will help you organize your time for maximum efficiency and shortest possible stay at your (beloved?) Skyline College.
Choose your first classes wiselyThe first semester is always the hardest. You don’t know exactly what classes to sign up for, you may not know anyone at the school, you don’t know the campus, or any other difficulty you can think of. The school is new, and you’re being thrown into a world of $26 fees and $300 textbooks. It isn’t easy, so don’t pile a load of responsibility onto your already-aching stress level. For my first semester here I only took classes that appealed to my interests, and the strategy may work for you as well. I took news writing my first semester, and look at me now.
Have as much fun as you canIf you happen to see a class you’d enjoy taking in that big ol’ Fall semester catalogue and it happens to fall within the requirements for transferring or whatever it is you plan to do, take it. Guaranteed, you’ll have more fun in that class and be more motivated to do the work and pass. Ride the wave of fun classes for as long as you can.
NetworkDuring the adventures of your first semester at Skyline, making friends is inevitable. There’s always someone in the class you discuss things with or relate to better than any of the others. When the class is over, don’t lose contact with them. Not only are you going to keep a friend, but you’ll also have someone to tag along with the following semester. Ask what classes your friend is taking and sign up for the same ones, if you can. Having a friend who can help you with your schoolwork is a seriously useful tool when you’re in a class you’re required to take (and probably don’t like).
The early bird gets the wormBut who wants worms?Plenty of classes are offered in the afternoon and evening. Personally, in the morning I’m a zombie and I prefer my classes after the sun has passed its zenith.
Join the staffMy entire focus during my stay at Skyline has stemmed from one random moment: when I decided to sign up for news writing, the path of my life was changed forever. Since I took that class, I’ve done better in my other studies, chosen a major, and decided what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Once again, I can’t say whether or not it would work for you, but I say it’s worth a try.
That’s all I’ve got. I hope my experiences can be of help to you in your class-signing-up-for needs. I’ll be here again next issue with more advice. If you decide you need my help with something, e-mail your problem to me at [email protected] and I’ll try to provide you with in-depth advice on how to deal with it. All submissions will be the property of The Skyline View and if you don’t feel like letting anyone know who you are, I can leave your name out of the equation.
