Still trying to decide what classes you want to take next year? With the numerous amount of options that McLean offers, it can be difficult to narrow down your schedule to seven classes. Here are some helpful tips when trying to decide what to take next year.

1. Pick classes that interest you

When trying to decide what classes to take next year, make a list of choices that interest you. Thinking about becoming a doctor? Take anatomy. Interested in engineering? Sign up for STEM. Do not just take a class because your friends are, do it because you actually want to learn about the subject.

2. Be mindful of what classes you need to graduate

When formulating your schedule, make sure you check with your counselor about what courses you need to take in order to graduate. In order to earn certain diplomas, you are required to take a fine arts course and a course on personal finance. You should also be aware of how many credits of each of the four core classes you need to graduate. This may make your decision easier!

3. Challenge yourself

If you find a certain subject to be especially easy for you, try challenging yourself by opting to take a tougher course in that subject area. Say, for instance, you are in an easy math class. Next year consider choosing an honor course or AP if it’s available. A helpful tip would be to discuss with your current teacher about what they think you should take next year.

4. Don’t overload yourself

Although it is important to challenge yourself, it is equally as important to make sure your class schedule is something you can handle. Seven AP’s, for instance, may not be the best idea. Your course schedule should be tailored to you individually, not to anyone else. Even if your friends are taking three or four AP’s, you may only need to take two. It is a matter of what you can handle personally.

5. Talk to friends and family

After you’ve narrowed down your choices for class schedule next year, talk to friends and family about their input. Although the choice is ultimately up to you, it can be helpful to get insight from someone besides yourself on the classes you have chosen to take. Remember, after you sign up, your schedule is not definite. You can always change it during the first couple weeks of the next year.