News & Media

What are you passionate about? Maybe it’s helping others learn in ways that can support their growth, allowing them to become better people. Or perhaps you love sports but aren’t great at them, so instead, you enjoy giving the play-by-play. Whatever the case may be, there’s a way to turn your passion into a rewarding career. 

Starting the process of choosing a vocation can be intimidating. The good news is, you don’t have to commit to anything right away! Initially, try out classes in different programs to discover what might be the best fit for you. From agriculture and criminal justice to medicine, Lackawanna College will help you explore many career pathways and possibilities 

How Do I Know Which Classes I Need to Take?

To decide which classes you need to take, start by browsing a course catalog. The catalog lays out which courses are available each semester, assisting you in choosing classes that fit your schedule. Remember that each course you take can affect your graduation timeline, so it’s important to select wisely. If possible, meet with your advisor before registering to get advice on which classes to take. 

A Lackawanna College advisor will review the course catalog with you during your selection process to ensure you meet the degree requirements. Before meeting with your advisor, get familiar with the classes you’re interested in so you can discuss them in detail. Their support will reassure you that you’re on the right track. 

Should I Prioritize General Education or Major Courses First?

During the first two years of higher education, most of your classes will focus on fulfilling your core requirements, also called general education. Completing these courses is essential because failing to do so could prevent you from graduating. A simple way to prevent this is by balancing general education requirements with major-specific classes. Meet with your advisor to ensure you understand your core requirements and plan when to take each one.

In some cases, certain classes can fulfill two requirements at once. For example, a general education requirement in humanities might also count toward a major requirement in communications. By killing two birds with one stone, you can reduce your course load while still meeting all the requirements. You might even be able to graduate earlier than planned. Watch for these types of courses, but if you’re unsure which courses count for multiple requirements, you can always check with your academic advisor for help.

If you’re unsure about your major, completing your general education credits early can be beneficial. Exploring core requirements allows you to try out different areas of study before making a decision. These courses include a wide range of liberal arts and sciences designed to help you develop a well-rounded education. 

How Many Classes Should I Take per Semester?

The number of classes each person should take per semester varies. When registering for classes, remember that your assignments will require more time and effort than you might be used to. While it might be tempting to start with a heavy course load, we advise against it. Ease into your schedule until you feel confident in your time management skills and the quality of your work. This approach helps set you up for success.

Should I Take Morning or Evening Classes?

Choosing between morning or evening classes depends on when you feel most productive. If you’re a morning person, morning classes suit you. However, if you find it hard to stay awake early and focus, they might not be the best choice. 

When signing up for classes, consider scheduling them all at the same time of day instead of leaving long gaps between sessions. This approach may maximize your efficiency by providing dedicated study time. It also allows larger portions of your day to be devoted to work, extracurricular activities, and socializing. Remember that choosing classes as soon as registration opens can improve your chances of securing your preferred time slots. It’s also wise to prepare a list of backup courses in case your top choices are no longer available.

Academic Conundrum? Talk to Your Advisor Today! 

As you get ready for your next semester, choosing the right classes is likely a top priority. Selecting courses is about more than just your interests – it also involves balancing your workload and staying on track to graduate on time. Picking classes that match your interests, schedule, and goals is essential for an enriching college experience. If you need help with this, reach out to your academic advisor. 

Your academic advisor is a crucial resource throughout your college journey. They are here to answer any questions you have about course requirements and your graduation plan—a structured outline of the courses and requirements needed to complete your degree and graduate on time. Working with your advisor and following the plan will help you stay on track and guide you on what courses to take each semester. They’ll provide professional guidance to help you succeed and achieve your goals, from choosing the right classes to managing your workload effectively.

Lackawanna College’s academic advisors are here to support you from the first day of your college journey, through graduation, and beyond. With careful planning and guidance, you can make the most of your college experience, semester by semester. 
When you are ready to take that first step, explore our admissions and enrollment page to make sure you’re set up for success.