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USU registration tips: Plan early,
consult with those blessed advisors
By
Whitney Hancock
November 12, 2007 | It's that time of year again. Time
to hunker down and figure out schedules, determine major
requirements, and remember to set aside time to eat
in a day. It's time to register for spring semester.
For many, this can be a time of elevated stress levels
and frustration. It certainly warrants the stress that
comes with it, for this is a time to determine our ability
to complete our college educations efficiently and successfully,
which will, in turn, determine our success in life following
graduation. The university offers services to alleviate
this stress. Each college within the university is equipped
with advisors to, in a sense, take on this stress for
us. That is what they are here for.
The department advisors have a ton of responsibility.
We've all seen the halls outside their offices littered
with haggard looking students just dreading what is
to come; the possibility of being told that class is
full, that the professor with the horrible reputation
is the only one teaching it this semester, or worse,
that we cannot graduate. It's never quite as bad as
we imagine. Sometimes we find we are a bit behind, but
generally they can help us out. But it's almost impossible
to actually get in to see these advisors, unless we
have a whole day to kill just waiting outside their
office during walk-in hours. So may we make a few suggestions
for next time?
Registration tends to sneak up on us, because it comes
up even before we start thinking about this semester's
finals! So first, try to be aware that it is coming.
And start planning early. The "view only" spring schedule
was available weeks ago. How many of us actually looked
at it before this week? Get a tentative schedule worked
out as soon as you can.
Believe it or not, advisors work all semester long,
not just the week of registration. So make an appointment!
If you cannot meet with your advisor, talk to a peer
advisor. They can sometimes be even more helpful because
they can relate to your stress a little more readily
and can help you. And when you do make an appointment,
go in with questions. Be engaged in the process. You
will understand better what is required of you and your
stress levels will decrease. Even better, you will be
able to have a curriculum that you will look forward
to when you know what all your options are.
Advisors are invaluable, as is their time. So take
advantage of it, and take control of your college education.
NW
MS
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