<p>I’m a proponent generally (so this doesn’t have much to do with the specifics of your question) of taking 5 classes, with the fifth class being a course with essentially no coursework - something really easy and fun. Classes through advising programs, some ExCollege Courses, particular drama/art/dance classes, and others.</p>
<p>The reason for this is that if you find that your coursework is too much for you in your first semester, you can drop a course as late as Thanksgiving without any penalty. Taking 4 courses doesn’t leave you that flexibility; if you’re struggling, you have to continue to struggle. Whereas 4 + 1 Easy Course puts makes it possible to drop one of your four more challenging courses, if necessary. And if it becomes clear that you can handle the workload and won’t need the buffer, you can always drop that 5th easy class.</p>
<p>Add/drop is one of the things I didn’t totally understand about College, and how there is no stigma on dropping courses. Don’t be afraid to use the drop option if you need to.</p>