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Daniel Kang
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![Course Selection](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/400x274_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-post/photos/img_6632.jpg?itok=zfG6vEoS×tamp=1645125303)
How I Approach Course Selection
It's that time of the year again: course selection period. Beginning on Feb. 10, students will be asked to elect 3 courses they're planning to take during their spring term. Therefore, with two course selection experiences under my belt, I want to share the tips and tricks I employ to have a well-balanced, successful academic term!
- High, intermediate, and low
I recommend that students select one course of high difficulty, one of intermediate difficulty, and one of low difficulty––or what Dartmouth students call a "layup." I define the word difficulty with the amount of time that needs to be invested in the class. For example, CHEM 5 was a "high difficulty" course for me where I was forced to spend around 2-3 hours completing practice problems and reviewing concepts on a daily basis. There could be quarters where taking more than one difficult course is needed (i.e. for major completion); however, even in those cases, one layup is nevertheless needed to create a balance.
- Consider time investment outside of classes
A student's schedule doesn't solely revolve around classes; rather, many Dartmouth students are involved in extracurricular activities such as organizations, research, or part-time work. These things are important to consider as you need to be able to allocate enough time for academic and extracurricular work. Detailedly review your commitments for the following quarter and consider if your schedule will be manageable.
- Employ on-campus resources
There are countless faculty and staff members who are willing to assist you in creating a healthy, balanced schedule. If you're on an engineering or pre-health track that contains significant prerequisites and core classes, speak to an advisor or even a peer mentor to receive guidance. Friends who have taken the respective course in previous terms are also a great resource––ask them questions! As for me, upperclassmen have been great in helping me understand the "realistic" level of work each class will push me to complete.
- Prepare back-ups
Always prepare back-up courses, especially for non-major, layup courses, as they most probably will have more students signed up than the enrollment limit. So, if you don't get the courses you wanted, you always have a plan B or even C to follow.
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Sophomore Summer has already defined itself by its exciting, unfamiliar experiences and the relaxed atmosphere of campus. With new classes and clubs in full swing, here is what I have been up to during this wonderful time on campus!
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In this blog, I would like to share some other academic-inclined ways that Dartmouth students spend their freshman summer.
![blogger_image](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/60x60_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/wechatimg3290.jpg?itok=_fEvVHFF×tamp=1695605711)
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In the summer, prospective students might take the time to visit potential colleges and universities to apply to. But what are some things to look for as you peruse campuses and take in the view, especially during the summer? Here are some ideas!
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I'm now finally done with my pre-medical requirements and wanted to continue my recap of the whole journey!
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My first-year at Dartmouth has been a period of profound growth and self-discovery. It has challenged me to push beyond my limits, embrace my strengths and weaknesses, and navigate the complex web of opportunities that define college life.
![blogger_image](https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/sites/admissions.prod/files/styles/60x60_blog/public/admissions/content/blog-author/image/wechatimg3290.jpg?itok=_fEvVHFF×tamp=1695605711)
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"What's your major?" seems like a pressing question for every freshman, but now that my freshman year is behind me, I know I shouldn't have worried as much.
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