academic dilemma
I had next term all planned out so that I was taking two courses, Advanced Japanese and Media Theory, as well as 6 thesis credits and one or two random PE classes as usual. I ended up signing up for 4 PE classes (Rock II, Wilderness Surival, Jog/Run, and Kundalini Yoga) without the intent of taking them all-- but I still want to.

Today I realized that I don't HAVE to take Advanced Japanese. I'm more than covered as far as language credits are concerned. I have my Japanese Major in my pocket. I don't NEED the class. So why should I take it? I can have more time to focus on my thesis and sleep, as well as the ability to fill up my schedule and credits with fun PE things.

What's the problem? Well, I'm an overachiever and the thought of missing an academic opportunity causes me to panic. I'm worried about my Japanese. This term I dropped the 4th year reading/writing class because it was stressful and the teacher was a bitch. Already my language skills have gone downhill, but with a full credit load this term and thesis work on my plate, I'm sure I saved my sanity.

I feel like this speaking/listening class helps me maintain my skills, but only minorly. I get good listening practice and a small amount of speaking practice. Most of the speaking work revolves around weekly news reports and media presentations twice per term-- things I dash off without great enthusiasm. As far as vocabulary and skit practice? Crammed into short term memory to suffer extinction a week later.

I'm worried about my Japanese. I know that after I graduate in the Spring, I won't be exposed to the language for at least three months, if not for an extended period of time. The thought of losing it completely upsets me, but I almost see it as inevitable. I don't feel like I get a huge benefit from this class, but I also feel guilty dropping it, like I'm "giving up" on my language major too soon.

Am I being anal retentive? What would you do?