Taking 20 Units: Is it Worth It?

By Donal Buckley

Spring registration is well underway, with students scrambling to get the best classes they can for a seamless graduation. I, of course, am one of these students. Recently, I wrote a piece about why I decided to add a PR major. It’s been going well, but a “consequence” of sorts is having to take at least 20 units for my last four semesters at USC. Considering the standard number of units per semester is 16-18, it’s pretty unconventional to hear someone take extra classes. Regardless, in order to graduate with both my majors and minor on time, I’m taking 20 units this semester and for the rest of my USC career.

So, how’s it been? For starters, pretty busy. Since most of my classes are required for my degree programs, they tend to be a lot more work than an elective. With new readings, presentations, and problem sets to do every week, it feels like I’ve barely had a chance to pump the brakes since the semester started. Additionally, because of my schedule, I’m on campus from 9am to 5pm most days. By the time I’m writing this, it’s week 10, but I’ve barely had motivation to do anything since Fall Break. On weekends, the last thing I want to do is more homework.

On top of the additional work, taking 20 units can come at an additional cost, which is another downside. It’s about $2k for every unit over 18, but the Academic Achievement Award (AAA) can cover up to 21. If you need to take over 18 units and have above a 3.75 GPA, then you qualify for AAA. This doesn’t mean you can take just any classes, though — they all have to fulfill a major, minor, or GE requirement. A course plan from your advisor is required on the application so you can prove you need those classes. Otherwise, you’re paying out of pocket.

Also, midterms just happened, and I can confidently say they’re no joke with this course load. Midterms are already overwhelming for the standard 16-18 units, so you canimagine what 20 feels like. I had three midterms right after Fall Break, which was tough. Still, it really just depends on the classes you take. I had four exams overall, and some of my classes didn’t really have midterms. But, every one of my classes has a final, so I’m not looking forward to December.

Taking 20 units is a lot of work, but it’s doable — and valuable. If I wasn’t taking 20 units, I wouldn’t be able to study everything I’m interested in. It’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make, especially if it means not having to graduate late (and pay for extra semesters). USC is such a prestigious institution, and we pay a lot of money to be here. I figured I might as well make the most of my tuition, and there’s support in place to be able to do it.

If you absolutely have to take 20 units in order to graduate on time, then I would recommend it. Just know, taking extra classes can probably be avoided depending on the program. I wasn’t able to start taking PR classes until my junior year, which means I’m completing an extra degree program in two years. If you’re proactive about adding a new area of study, you might have an easier time. Start as early as freshman year! On a related note, speak to all of your advisors as soon as you can. Mine gave me conflicting information, and had I known I’d be taking extra classes during my junior and senior years, I would have mapped my course plan differently as a sophomore.

So if you have to take 20 units, and have the means to cover it (whether you’re eligible for AAA or willing to pay extra), then I say go for it. Just know, you have to be motivated to earn those units. Don’t take extra classes if you’re not willing to put in extra work. It’s not going to be easy — and this sounds cliché — but with the right mindset, it’s possible. I’ve gotten used to it by now and I have my routine. Once you get into the swing of things, it’ll be much easier for you. But I won’t sugarcoat it, those first few weeks are going to be tough.

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