<p>Just wondering if this is too heavy a load for a first semester. I guess the average is 15, but he does have some AP credit so I was wondering if it is better to start with 13 and get rid of one of the three credit classes. Any thoughts from anyone? Thanks!</p>
<p>It really depends on what those 16 credits are, but as long as he’s aware that it will require a lot of work outside of class (the general rule of thumb is 3 hours outside of class per credit hour… i.e., outside of class, 48 hours of homework/studying/etc… but that’s not always a strict rule, just a general guideline), he should be fine.</p>
<p>DS took 16 hours first semester freshman year and it was fine.</p>
<p>That’s what my son took freshman year, and it was no problem. This fall he’s planning on taking 19 plus a part-time job. Hmmm.</p>
<p>Basically, if you want to be able to explore things outside of the academic world your first semester [which might make it feel a little less scary] you should go for the 13 credits. If you’re coming in with some, just give yourself one easy adjustment semester before you dive into 16 credits. Of course, it does depend on what you’re taking, but i say get used to college life [your schedule, balancing activities, making and keeping friends, going out on the weekends, school work]. I just finished my freshman year and i think I could have taken it a little slower. You can always take a summer class if you need to squeeze in credits!</p>