<p>Also, on the issue of getting into the classes, I would say this:
The further you get into a series, the easier it will be to get the classes. Even if you can’t get registered for a class, you should show up and ask the professor if you can stick around and take the place of someone who drops. This is especially true with classes at the beginning of a series (Calc I, Phys 4A, introductory CS). Just tell the professors that you realize that there will be at least a 60% drop rate, and you would like to be allowed to take a seat if one becomes available. You will definitely have to be aggressive, and don’t be afraid of approaching the profs. They have some power to bend the rules and let extra people in, especially for courses where they know that a lot of students will end up dropping anyways.
Also, go to ratemyprofessors . com it is a very helpful site.</p>