<p>The typical courseload is four and believe me it IS plenty. Especially if you plan on doing extra currics. Some people, like smithiegr do take more than 4, but it’s not that common because it is taxing, and often those 5 classes are a mix of heavier and lighter courses. </p>
<p>Smith offers Arabic, and it’s better than taking the Five College program because it’s more structured. The teachers at Smith are very good, and the program continues to grow. Right now we offer just intermediate and beginning, both courses are a year long and you need to take both semesters in order to get credit for either. I anticipate that next year a third level will be offered, once there’s a large enough cadre to support it. </p>
<p>Wanting to take a lot of languages is a common desire, but honestly, I would discourage it. Intro language courses are very intensive, they take a lot of time and have a lot of homework. One is more than enough. Also, most require a year long time committment, so that means that both first and second semester you will be booked up. And they usually conflict in terms of meeting time. I’m not trying to rain on your parade, but it’s important to be realistic. </p>
<p>There will always be more Smith classes available that you want to take than you will have room in your schedule. It’s really hard to make those choices, beleive me I’ve done it for four years. Prioritize, be focused, and remember that you don’t need to do it all right away. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>