<p>I wouldn’t want anyone reading this to assume that the problem need2learn is describing is a common one. I know nothing about the particular situation he or she is referring to, but it is extremely uncommon for a faculty member to leave the country (or even the state) during the semester. And when they do, normally students are informed well in advance and back-up plans are put in place. Faculty members take their advising responsibilities extremely seriously at Oberlin–it’s an important part of our job.</p>
<p>I would also venture to say that what sometimes look like “registration nightmares” to students usually get resolved without much difficulty later on. It can be easy for students to think they won’t get into the classes they need, but they almost always do by the time the semester is actually underway.</p>