Class registration for the year 2020-21 is quickly approaching, and many students are outlining their classes for the next school year.
Beginning Feb. 3, juniors will start requesting classes, followed by the sophomores, and eventually the freshman.
Although it has only been a month since winter break, many students have already planned their desired class schedule for the next school year. This early start, however, is necessary in the eyes of many students.
“I think picking classes earlier allows you to sit with your decision and see how it feels. If it doesn’t sit right, you can always change your course load at the start of the school year,” said Anna Burford, a sophomore.
The counselors play a crucial role in the class registration process. First, they discuss various class options with the student and help them decide which class would be the best fit for them. They then put in the class requests for that student and strive their best to make sure that the students get their top choices.
However, some students already have their classes picked out and won’t need assistance in choosing their courses.
“As a freshman and a sophomore, my counselor had little to no influence on the classes I wanted to take. I went into those meetings already knowing exactly what classes I wanted to take. But as a junior, it’s the first time that I’ve even thought to discuss with my counselor before our meeting … I think it really depends on you,” said Elliot Yonts, a junior.
Unfortunately, the system is not perfect, and because there are over 2,000 students at Carlmont, occasional problems with class schedules do arise.
“A lot of the classes I’m going to take are special classes with only one to two periods available. My brother had the same problem his senior year, and he had to choose between AP French and Symphony Orchestra. It was really disappointing,” Yonts said.
Luckily, for most students, this is not an issue that they will have to worry about, as the counselors work to minimize any discrepancies.
Many incoming freshmen and sophomores also choose to have an extra class—called “zero period” at Carlmont—so that they can take more electives.
“I will have to take a zero period to do all the classes that I want to,” said Avantika Swaminathan, a freshman.
However, many students don’t take a zero period because they are either already taking enough classes or would rather sleep in during the morning.
With all the choices at hand, students continue to prepare for class registration appointments as Feb. 3 approaches.
“I’ve started thinking about my classes so I can figure out a schedule that works best for me,” Swaminathan said.
