<p>Ah, Kriket, I'm sorry. The First Year Seminars were the one class that I've heard problems about. D was lucky to get her first choice. I know they were 8 over the limit when the dust settled.</p>
<p>Btw, a hint for first-years: if your school has a DailyJolt site, once your receive the schedule of classes, go on during the summer and ask for opinions about the various profs. My D found it very helpful. And pretty accurate.</p>
<p>But here's a contrarian view: my d. was also one of the last registrants and, in addition, was awaiting the results of her French placement test (she did very well, and turned around and took Italian.) Now Italian (which, like French, at Smith is extremely popular - languages here are top notch) was full - however, they put a huge stress on making sure all students thinking about JYA get in, and so, after the first session, they made room (they may have booted an Amherst student). </p>
<p>Like everyone and her sister, for her first-year seminar she wanted to take the "Re-Enacting History" class. No way! Maxed out! (That's the one TheDad's d. is in, I think.) They promised her she could take it second semester. But her advisor who, by this time knew her pretty well, suggested a different option. A writing seminar on the literary roots of 19th century operas (about lovers and courtesans.) Taught by one of Smith's most internationally famous professors. Only thing is - he is known to be a real bear! Difficult personally, tons of works, extremely demanding, and takes no guff. He is said to inspire terror. Had she asked on the Jolt, the feedback would likely have been overwhelmingly negative. But the thing is - my d. has sung Carmen, and already knew much about the subject matter. There are only 4 students (he was obviously avoided by many), and he goes through every paper himself, in two or three drafts (d. says he is the only person she's ever met who is more demanding about writing than I am!) There is a huge amount of reading, and assigning the listening of two three-hour operas a week is not uncommon.</p>
<p>It is her favorite course! And she is planning to study with him again. So I chalk this one up to the inspired advisor, who really took the trouble to know my kid.</p>
<p>Good point, Mini. There are 9 and 60 ways.</p>
<p>Jamimom, You have found my retirement plan. College Class Registration Consultant- I like it. I was all set to comb garage sales looking for an original signed copy of the Declaration of Independence but this sounds even better!</p>
<p>In truth , I have never been exceptionally good at following rules. I have however made a career of staying barely in front of them. LOL.</p>
<p>Online registration still has alphabetical queus apparently. S--last name W--didn't get macro econ for next semester at first attempt. A 500 kid class no less!</p>
<p>Mom suggested he talk to advisor. Bingo. He got in. He did have to give up his two FREE days per week though, LOL. </p>
<p>Getting required major and core classes done before year abroad is tricky.</p>