1. When picking your core classes choose ones you need and like.
Core classes include: math, English, science, and social studies classes; these are usually harder to pick than picking electives. First, it is important to pay attention to what the class is expecting of you, for example, if you don’t like math, picking chemistry for a science class wouldn’t be beneficial for you, whereas biology might be better. Challenge yourself though, don’t pick a class just because it seems easy or you already know the information, it will be a waste of a class.
“Pick classes that are going to benefit you in the long run for your future,” sophomore Kylea Tackett said.
Lastly, a core class should correlate with your plans after high school (or in high school) and give you the correct credits to further your education.
“(Students) need to keep track of the required courses and where they are at to satisfy the requirements,” counselor Dana Smith said.
2. When picking your elective classes choose ones you will enjoy and that fit well into your schedule.
Elective classes are usually other classes that aren’t as academically educational as core classes may be. If you like writing, yearbook or newspaper would be a good class to choose. If you like drawing/painting, art would be a good addition to your schedule. It can be as simple as that. But electives are not always just fun, extra classes on your schedule, some electives help reach graduation requirements. These requirements may be a foreign language, an arts class, etc. There is also a graduation requirement for elective credits, a certain amount is needed. So, when picking electives don’t just pick a random class to fill up your schedule.
“(Students) need to think about how to use that elective, to further (their) understanding of what (they) want to do after high school,” Smith said.
Be thoughtful while picking because the more you like a class, the better you’ll do in that class.
3. Try to make your schedule diverse.
Having a diverse schedule means that you have a variety of different types of classes, ranging from journalism to metalworking, or from Spanish to choir. Diverse classes could even just be in several different places in school. These types of classes help give you a diverse learning environment, meet new people, and gain new skills that you might not have had otherwise.
“You can meet new people of different beliefs, etc.,” sophomore Madison Herrington said.
4. When the time comes to pick your classes be prepared.
After picking your classes ask yourself two questions: Am I meeting at least one graduation requirement? Do I feel confident in my schedule? Being well prepared with your classes is important so that you don’t push all the requirements you’ll need for graduation until senior year. Spread out hard classes make your life easier. But most of all don’t be afraid to ask adults if you’re confused or need more help, like your school counselor or a teacher.
“I think it is important (to ask your counselor or a teacher) because if you do ask a question, you sort of know what you’re walking into then being blindsided. You also have time to think before actually locking in your answer,” sophomore Heyden Snider said.