<p>For parents at Choate, my son wants to do 6 classes in winter and spring term. He's an entering freshman and is smart and a hard worker. But I want to know how feasible this is with the freshman course load. </p>
<p>Let me count… English, math, science, history, foreign language… that’s five. If the sixth is elective and light, I don’t think it’s going to be a big deal, especially when it’s not in the first trimester. My child is taking the sixth course in art elective. </p>
<p>Taking a sixth course must be approved by your son’s advisor who will be in the best position to determine the wisdom of the choice. Some electives are not “light,” so heed the advisor. ChoatieKid has taken a sixth course winter trimester when weekends are not taken up with crew events. If your son plays a competitive sport, it might be best to hold off on extra courses until he has a comfort level with the academics at Choate. Our experience has been that we have been able to trust our son’s deans and advisors to craft his course selections. We have not been involved in this aspect of his education at all.</p>
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<p>Love this!</p>
<p>Unless it’s a light art class or something along those lines, I would wait until the winter trimester at least. Getting a feel for the school and settling in will be needed and tough in those first few weeks. If it’s something like a double language, maybe call someone? The registrar or department head would most likely be able to share some more details along those lines.</p>
<p>Thanks so much for the advice. We agree we wouldn’t have him do a 6th class until at least winter and with the guidance of his advisor. I spoke to the registrar who was very helpful. She said we could put it down as a preference and if after the fall term it didn’t seem like the right choice, we could elect not to do it. </p>