Planning ahead smoothes class registration process
As registration approaches, students begin to worry. They try to figure out what classes they want, what times they can take them, how they all fit together and this tentative schedule may all fall apart as the classes fill. So, how can students calm the chaos and make registration go smoothly?
“Don’t miss your registration time and be flexible,” said Mary Beth Holtey, assistant dean for student affairs.
Registration begins on Oct. 29. Classes are restricted, meaning not everyone can sign up for classes depending on major and requirements, until Nov. 12. Students who have holds on their account will not be able to register until they are lifted.
The more credit hours a student has, the earlier he or she can register. Students can access their unofficial transcript on myDUSIS to confirm the number of credit hours they have, then they can use the link in the email sent by the Office of Student Affairs to view what day and time they will be able to begin registration.
Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors for help with the registration process. Advisors are there to give students advice on which classes to take and how to prepare for registration. Many advisors have different office hours as registration approaches so that students can meet with them about registration more easily.
The first thing students should do to prepare for registration is read the emails from Drake that were sent out about registration. Students can also generate a degree audit on their DUSIS page to view what classes they still need for their major and Areas of Inquiry (AOI) requirements.
“Students should call when they have questions. Our office opens at 7 a.m. the two weeks of registration,” Holtey said.
All students prepare differently for registration, but there are some consistent pieces of advice. Students are encouraged to have backup classes and back up times for registration. Students are also encouraged to record the CRN numbers for the classes they would like so that they can register quickly.
“As soon as the course schedule comes out, I go through and come up with a couple different plans of classes I could take to fulfill the requirements I still have to complete,” said Katie Elder, a junior biology and psychology major. “I think the most important thing is taking the time to compile all the requirements you have for majors, minors and AOIs in one place, so you have an overall picture of what needs to be completed when, and nothing ends up getting forgotten.”
One group of students who struggle with registration is the first-years. First-years have never registered on their own before, and for some, this can be daunting.
“Registration is demoralizing. Knowing that the potential fate of your future existence is dependent on the Wi-Fi connection speed of your laptop fills me with a sense of hopelessness,” said Brian Robinson, a first-year music major.
However, there is help. Upperclassmen have been through the process before and often have good advice. There are also events, like the Honors Council Registration Help Night on Oct. 30 in the Honors Lounge, which can help first-years become prepared for registration.
“Have a couple different plans going into registration, taking into consideration when you’ll be registering relative to other students in your year. There are some classes that just fill up faster than others.” Elder said.
