Counselor Tips for Choosing Classes Your First Semester
Balance class and work hours
- Don’t over load yourself with too many units your
first semester
- See Planning Your Schedule (243K PDF) for how many units/classes
you should take
- AA
Degree General Education Requirements
- AA
Degree: Liberal Arts & Sciences
Begin English and math classes your first semester (whenever
possible)
- Good communication skills (reading, writing, speaking) and
math are important foundation skills for succeeding in most
college courses and careers
- English and math are required for
all associate and bachelor’s
degrees
Enroll in classes that interest you
- Read
course descriptions online, in the class schedule,
or the College Catalog.
- Talk to other students, counselors,
and instructors about classes to match your interests.
- Actively
exploring your interests can lead to increased motivation
and more satisfying educational and career choices.
Take General Education courses toward one of the following
general goals:
- AA
Degree: Liberal Arts and Sciences
- California
State University Breadth Requirements ( for CSU transfer)
- Intersegmental
General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) (for
transfer to CSU, University of California-- most majors, some
private colleges)
Begin Taking Courses Toward Your Major/Certificate
- Some ‘high unit’ majors have many required courses
that should be begun as soon as possible.
- Some ‘high
unit’ majors include Engineering,
Sciences, Computer Science, Nursing/Dental Hygiene
- Some ‘high
demand’ (impacted or selective)
colleges and/or majors require that certain classes be
completed prior to transfer
- Many transfer major requirements
can be found at Assist.org
- Certificate
programs require
courses in the major only (no general education)
- College instructors will expect you to assume more responsibility
for your learning outside of class than in high school
- Learn/improve
your skills in time management, note taking, studying, preparing
for exams, etc.
Take a Physical Education course
- PE Courses
- Two units are required for students earning an Associate
of Arts Degree
- Meet new friends and relieve stress
