Making Good Use of Your Time
Spring Credit Limit
The increased freshman credit limit for the Spring Term—57 units—allows you a little more room to begin a major or to explore other areas of interest. A typical Spring schedule looks like this:
Remember that 57 units is the maximum. It is not mandatory to take up to 57 units. If some of your Fall term classes were a review, then you may be experience brand-new material for the first time. So, be confident -- but not over-confident. Even if you did extremely well in your Fall term classes, you'll find that Spring subjects are often much more difficult, time-consuming.
You may choose to continue with 48 units and use the rest of your time for a varsity sport, a paid UROP, a student organization, or other extracurricular activities. Spring term offers a second opportunity and challenge to learn how to balance many competing commitments.
Planning for a Successful Term
If your Fall academic performance was not all it could have been or you wished it were better, don't waste time in regrets or beating yourself up. Instead, use the experience to build a better model of time management for the Spring.
Before committing yourself to more units and new extracurricular activities, be sure to assess your free time wisely. You'll find excellent advice for managing your time efficiently on Quick Tips for Academic Success..
If you feel that you still need assistance with time management, be sure to discuss your concerns with your advisor and associate advisor. The staff of the Office of Undergraduate Advising and Academic Programming stand ready to help you as well; stop by 7-104 or email firstyear-www@mit.edu to set up an appointment.
|
