<p>I am a EECS major at Berkeley next fall with a Computer Science concentration and intended Haas (as of now, could change though). As you might imagine, this is quite a rigorous courseload. I have heard people say that by no means should you ever take much over 12 units in the first semester. Right now I'm signed up for 17.</p>
<p>Math 53(4)
Physics 49 (supplementary work finishing up Physics B) (2)
Comp Sci 61A (4)
Sociology 3AC (4)
Chem Engin. Seminar (1 unit, no homework, or almost none i hear)
Symphony Orchestra (2)</p>
<p>Is this too much for a first semester freshman?
I would like to scale it down myself, but with Pre-Haas requirements I'm afraid that I'll end up going over into a fifth year, which is an option, but not one I'm too keen about.</p>
<p>And when I say too much for a freshman, we're talking about someone who is planning to do the jazz band/combo, symphony orchestra, two intramural sports teams and some extracurricular robotics activities/teams. And I, of course, want to be able to go out every weekend. Is this unrealistic and crazy?</p>
<p>Yes it is too much. I'd drop Sociology or another four credit class.</p>
<p>Well, it may vary by college, and I don't know anything about Berkeley, but I think seventeen units is doable. The average at my school is 15-16, so 17 wouldn't be a problem. I think your EC load is a bit on the hefty side though. Maybe start with one intramural sport and orchestra (or two others you'd prefer); you can always join second semester or sophomore year.</p>
<p>The average in the booklet is 16, but what i'm interested in is first semester units. College takes a lot of getting used to, which is why most people suggest taking less the first semester than you will in the last 7 semesters? so is the courseload too much for a person getting used to college is what i'm getting at. thank you poison.ivy.</p>
<p>With engineering, I'm pretty sure you'll end up with a fifth year anyway. I know many many people in engineering and most of them have been told by advisors that it's nearly impossible to do a bachelor's in any kind of engineering in only 4 years unless you go summers. </p>
<p>Looking at your schedule, I'd say either drop sociology or symphony orchestra. Not both but probably one of these two. Sociology would probably be your best bet since I doubt you'd be signed up for symphony orchestra as an eng. major unless you really wanted to be in that.</p>
<p>College does not equal high school. You cannot do 23495734698 extra-curriculars. Budget your time, pick the ones that are most valuable to you. You will end up in a far better position than if you try and spread yourself thin. Become a leader in just one club rather than a passive member of many.</p>