Choosing classes at the beginning of a new semester is always challenging. Whether this is your first or last year at McGill, the vast array of course options can easily be overwhelming. Luckily, the add/drop period gives students the opportunity to add and drop classes from their schedule after trying them out. This year, it ends on Sept. 10. While this extra wiggle-room can be a lifesaver, the first few weeks of classes often end up being a time of stress as students shuffle around their classes, obsessively refresh Minerva, and ask themselves how early they really are willing to get up in the morning. However, with the right approach, add/drop can be an occasion to make choices based on experience, rather than rushing blindly into the semester. Here are a few tools to help you see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Trying out classes 

Add/drop is a two-week period designed for students to find the classes that best match their interests and expectations. For first-year students, it’s also a way to try out different major and minor options before having to settle—at least for the semester. While most students register for classes as soon as registration opens, you are still allowed to attend classes you have not officially registered for. Make the most of those two weeks by going to as many classes as possible. This will avoid potential regrets later in the semester!

Talking to professors and students

Sometimes, going to the first class will not give you all the information you need about the course. To get a full picture, it helps to talk to students who have taken the course you aim for before. You can either approach students in person or find comments on websites like Rate My Professors. Sources like these can give information from the student perspective on the courses’ content, grading scheme, and everything else you need to know. On the other hand, the professor usually has the most up-to-date information about the syllabus, course goals, and exams for the current semester. Don’t be afraid to reach out to professors and TAs to get more in-depth insights. 

Seeing an advisor

Add/drop period—and the beginning of the semester more generally—is a good time to organize or reorganize your degree. Choosing your classes wisely is a big part of that process. Although they can be difficult to schedule, it’s worth it to get an appointment with a faculty advisor to make sense of your degree and figure out what classes you need to complete as prerequisites to get full credit. Advisors are there to reassure you, as it can be confusing to have so many course options available to you. You can also ask them for help if you’re not sure what major and/or minor would be a good fit for you. An appointment with an advisor is the best way to start the year with a clear idea of the path you are about to take.

Using Seat Alert

Sometimes, you are going to want to register for a class that is already full. This is frustrating, but there are ways to overcome this issue other than spending the whole day on Minerva waiting for someone to drop the course. One solution is to use Seat Alert—a platform on which you can select a course that you want to register for and, for $2 CAD, you’ll receive a notification by email every time someone drops the class. This way you don’t have to see your screen time on Virtual Schedule Builder go through the roof! If all else fails, you can send an email to the professor. Usually, they are not the ones in charge of class capacity but they might refer you to someone who will be able to give you a spot.