How to work EC into your Schedule

[jtenb7]

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I'm having problems figuring out how to fit EC's into my schedule. I'm a non traditional student taking basically all my science pre-reqs. I'm a full time student taking Physics, Chemistry and Biology this semester. All three classes include, lecture, lab and extra lecture/help class. All required. How in the world can I fit in EC. I'm pretty much booked M-F. Friday is about the only day that I have time after 2pm. And then there's Sat and Sun. I study some on Saturday and most of Sunday. I do need some free time.

The thing is I don't see my schedule lightening up anytime soon. I pretty much will be taking more science classes three at a time for the next 2 to 3 semesters. Any suggestions? How much EC do I need? I do have some but not a lot and know I need it.

 

[HYCW]

I don't know if the amount of EC is really considered, but more of the quality. Do you take a leadership position in the club? How long have you been involved in the EC? The schools will figure out pretty quickly if you're seriously interested in the EC, or just use it to pad your app.

Also, remember the EC doesn't necessarily mean organizations on campus. You can volunteer one day a month at a local hospital and that counts too. See if there's a charity event you're interested in (like maybe a health fair), and that might be just a one-day commitment. If you like books, join a book club. Most of those only meet once or twice a month and are an interesting "extra" that most people don't think of.

I'm a nontrad too, and probably did the same schedule as you did in order to finish the prereqs in 1.5 years (took Bio, Chem, Physics, and Micro in the same semester). If you can juggle your classes, do fairly well, AND devote some time to other interests, it leaves a good impression on how dedicated you are to achieving your goal of getting into opto school. 🙂 Good luck!

 

[ariel winter]

truth be told, i didn't really have that much time fo EC's either due to a full science course load; however, i voluneered all throughout summer at various places (4 months). once i had a lighter semester, i would also devote time to EC's on the weekends, so it adds up over a course of 3 years. yeah, i didn't have much in terms of free time- maybe a couple days a month or so. understand that you do have to put in the effort of you want the results. that's the way i look at it. i'm sure you will arrange time for good EC's though. and yeah, quality over quantity for sure. 👍

I'm having problems figuring out how to fit EC's into my schedule. I'm a non traditional student taking basically all my science pre-reqs. I'm a full time student taking Physics, Chemistry and Biology this semester. All three classes include, lecture, lab and extra lecture/help class. All required. How in the world can I fit in EC. I'm pretty much booked M-F. Friday is about the only day that I have time after 2pm. And then there's Sat and Sun. I study some on Saturday and most of Sunday. I do need some free time.

The thing is I don't see my schedule lightening up anytime soon. I pretty much will be taking more science classes three at a time for the next 2 to 3 semesters. Any suggestions? How much EC do I need? I do have some but not a lot and know I need it.

 

[prettygreeneyes]

You could also try Big Brothers Big Sisters... they usually ask that you committ one hour/week for at least one year. Not only will it look good on your application, but you will be changing a little kid's life for the better... pretty cool stuff!

 

[jtenb7]

Thanks for your replies. You guys had some really great suggestions!