Hi, I’m an incoming freshman this year and am planning on taking 16 credits for my first quarter at UW. The courses are:
HSTAM 111: The Ancient World (5)
RUSS 101: First-Year Russian (5)
CLAS 430: Greek Mythology (3)
ESS 106: Volcanoes (3)
Do you guys think that this is doable (not ‘too much’ workload, I mean)? I heard that the last two are quite easy.
What about HSTAM 111? Any opinions on this one? Do we need to write a lot of papers?
Thanks 
Hey,
As a recent graduate (and incoming grad student) who also worked in advising, 16 credits is completely doable. However, I would caution against a 400 level class. Generally speaking, they are geared toward upper level students with some preexisting knowledge of course content, and usually have a substantial project required for course completion. Volcanoes is extremely popular with freshmen, and people rave about the class. Similarly, HSTAM 111 is also really interesting and popular; although, I may be biased as I majored and will be doing my PhD in history. Language classes can be fairly demanding as far as time is concerned, so that is definitely something to consider. Remember, even at 13 credits, you are full time, but if you are determined to hit the magic 15, try a stand alone FIG. They help you adjust to university life, meet peers, and develop coping strategies without additional stress and coursework. Just some things to think about.