It’s that time of the year! Time to make your schedule. This is a time either filled with excitement or stress. Either way, the anticipation is there. What you do now will determine your next year of high school. After doing just that 4 times, I’d like to offer some advice to make a schedule you will succeed with.

 1. Think about your goals

Before you pick your classes, think about what you want to accomplish in high school. Do you want to be prepared for a certain major in college? Are there certain classes that you need credit for? Prioritize courses necessary for graduation or college admittance. Do some research. Most colleges will tell you what courses they look for on transcripts. Go into your scheduling meeting prepared. Know what classes you need to take.

2. Take classes you’re excited about

If you’re excited about a class, you’ll be more motivated to do the work. Even hard courses will feel easier when you have the attitude that you get to take the class, rather than you have to take the class. Take classes in topics you’re interested in.

3. Don’t worry about being in classes with your friends

Yes, taking classes with your friends can be fun, but it can also be very distracting. You’ll have plenty of time to talk to your friends at lunch or after school. Don’t be afraid to take a class without your friends. If you want to take the class, take it. I assure you that you will make new friends within the class.

4. Don’t be afraid to take a study hall if you need one

Know yourself. If you are taking a lot of difficult classes and have a lot of homework, take a study hall. Especially rising seniors who qualify for the APARC room. Sometimes, it can be hard to focus at home. There’s nothing like having a quiet space to get your work done. Study halls are also extremely helpful if you hold a leadership position in a club. It’s a great time to get organized for meetings.

On that note, don’t take more study halls than you need. Back to back study halls seem like a good idea at first glance, but in reality they can be quite boring. 80 minutes with nothing to do can seem like forever.

The bottom line is, this is the schedule you’re going to have to follow for 180 days. Make sure to put some thought into it, but don’t stress if you get to spring and the courses you picked don’t fit in your schedule. It all has a way of working out. Some of my favorite classes have been courses I didn’t go into my scheduling meeting planning to take. You’re classes are what you make of them. Good luck Eagle Nation!