Wait list function implemented on iCentral for class scheduling; to begin fall 2012

Central Michigan University students now have an alternative to bump cards.

Beginning with class registration for the fall 2012 semester, students have the option to put themselves on a wait list for classes that are full. The wait list function can be found on iCentral and is available to students as an option when students register for classes as they normally would.

However, there are stipulations.

According to a Wait List Instructions document on the CMU Registrar’s website, students may not be on the wait list for more than one section of a course, and students will not be able to enroll in another class held at the same time and on the same day as the class they are on the wait list for. Additionally, if students are already enrolled in one section of a course but wish to be on the wait list for another section, enrolling for the wait list of the second section will automatically drop students from the section they are already enrolled in.

South Campus Academic Adviser Amy Faber said bump cards may eventually be eliminated.

“The idea behind the wait listing is that bump cards could be phased out or eliminated depending on how each department wants to use the wait listing function,” Faber said. “It’s up to each department whether they want to utilize the wait list function, but it’s all or nothing. Either all classes from the department offer a wait list option or none of them do. A department could still choose not to participate at this point.”

The wait list option may prove to be both good and bad for students.

“I think (the wait list) is going to alleviate some student stress regarding tracking professors down to get a bump card, but we don’t want students to have false hope that they’ll get into the class,” Faber said. “Make sure to plan your schedule accordingly as if you’re not going to get into the class you’re wait listed for.”

If students are placed in a class they were previously wait listed for, they will be notified via email.

Macomb sophomore Andrew Venditti is still trying to complete pre-requisites and said he plans to use the function when he registers for fall classes.

“I really like the idea of the wait list, because it makes it easier for students to get classes,” he said. “Instead of having to constantly check iCentral and re-register, we can just get automatically bumped in. It’ll be nice to wait list myself for the classes I need but can’t register for yet, and hopefully I’ll get in once I finish all the requirements.”

Academic advisers are suggesting students register for classes as usual and don’t rely too heavily on the wait list.

“Basically, just register knowing that there may be possibilities of changes to the schedule if you were added to the class,” Faber said. “But don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.”