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Planning for a Successful Freshman Year

Register for Success – Ease into your freshman year and plan a schedule that will help you succeed.

Math – take it easy!

We recommend registering for the same level class you last took in high school. Getting a good grade in a class that might be a bit of a review is much better than stretching to the next class and starting college with a huge amount of stress.

Example: If you took calculus in high school and did well on the AB Calc AP test, take Math 112. If you passed BC, take Math 113.

Register for a fun class

Although we love engineering and technology, sometimes you need a break from your calculator. BYU has terrific dance, sports, and art classes.

Try looking through BYU's STAC, SWELL, and STDEV classes.

The major flow charts are an eight semester myth

The flow charts are a guideline. If you take a class out of order (as long as you meet prerequisite requirements) you will be okay. Many students take longer than eight semesters to graduate.

Get to know your department advisor

Each department is unique and your advisor can help connect you to valuable resources. The sooner you get to know them the better! Make an appointment with your department advisor HERE.

Join a club or two

Clubs are a great way to get to know other people and learn more about your major. Find out more about clubs in the college HERE.

Technical classes are hard

Don’t take more than 3 technical classes per semester. Unless you are superhuman this will be overwhelming. Find a balance of engineering/ technology classes, generals, and fun.

Attend activities!

Activities are a nice break to eat food and make friends. They provide technical, leadership, or networking support and can be great study break.

Find a list of upcoming events HERE.

It's normal to be homesick

Sometimes as a freshman you will get homesick for your parents and family, but there are many people here to support you. Get to know all the new adults in your life: religious leaders, advisors, mentors, etc. In addition, our offices in EB 246 are always open for comfort, advice, and chocolate.