<p>I think this depends largely on the school and the student. I’m having a lot of trouble getting classes I need, so I e-mailed my Dean and Department Chair late last night. They are now trying to get me into at least one more class. </p>
<p>Always talk to the higher ups, but make sure you play nice. My Dean in particular has been a huge help to me today; she’s forwarded my e-mail to the correct department heads for the GE classes I would like, and is trying to get me into an upper-division course in my major with permission from the department chair (which she’s still trying to obtain).</p>
<p>Point being that it’s possible to get the classes if you’re not willing to take “no” for an answer.</p>
<p>UCs are probably a whole other ballgame; I wouldn’t go there right now even if I got a full ride.</p>