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Choosing the Right College/question about picking college courses

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Expert: - 11/5/2008


Question
Hi
It's almost time for me to pick courses for next quarter, (for the first time!) my question is that do you have any tips on picking classes? For example, I play the guitar, and is there any point taking a class that involves playing the guitar? or am i just wasting money that way?

thanks!

Answer
John,

Unfortunately there is no way for someone like me to help you with this question. The answer depends on so many variables. First, I would recommend that you talk with your advisor at the college if you have one. That is what their responsibility is. Second, you need to keep in mind any required courses that you might need to take and plan on taking some of those. Third, I strongly believe that part of the education a student should receive in college is through the exploration of topics that are completely different from anything they know about. Fourth, if you like guitar the I think it makes a great deal of sense to take a class on it. There is nothing wrong with further exploring your interests as long as you keep in the back of your mind that you will ultimately need to focus of a particular interest. Since it sounds like you are a freshman, you have plenty of time for that.

Good luck and talk with your advisor. They hopefully will known something about you and can discuss your interests.  

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Todd Johnson

Expertise

I can help students and families understand the whole college admissions process from evaluating what a student wants from a college to finding the right college. This includes advising on the college application, the essay, recommendations and visiting colleges. I also can help families understand college financial aid. I have particular expertise in helping students who are applying to BS/MD programs.

Experience

I am a lawyer as well as a college admission consultant and have spent more than 11 years consulting with students and families on how to find the right college for each student. I work with students throughout the US as well as international students who wish to attend college in the US. I have helped hundreds of students find the best college for each student's needs. I have particular expertise helping students become the most competitive candidate for BS/MD programs.

Organizations
Independent Educational Consultants Association, Professional Member; Higher Education Consultants Association; National Association for College Admission Counseling; Minnesota Association for College Admission Counseling

Publications
Todd is the author of "BS/MD Programs-The Complete Guide: Getting into Medical School from High School." College Admissions Counseling’s blog content has been featured by the Chicago Sun Times, Fox News, Reuters and other major websites. It is syndicated by Blogburst.

Education/Credentials
BA St. Olaf College; JD Washington University in St. Louis

Awards and Honors
I am an instructor for the University of California Irvine extension.

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