Deciding on summer classes – would appreciate your advice!
To graduate in my preferred way (though it’s not a dealbreaker if I don’t), I need to take Calculus 1 and General Chemistry 2 this summer. The summer schedule just came out, and here are my options (note that the 10-week courses overlap, so I can’t take both):
- General Chemistry 2 as a 10-week course
- Calculus 1 as a 10-week course
- Either Calculus or Chemistry as a 10-week course plus a 5-week course of the other
- Both Calculus and Chemistry as separate 5-week courses (non-overlapping)
I’m majoring in chemistry, which I love. I took honors chemistry in high school (I’m a full-time dual credit student), so this semester’s Chem 1 has felt mostly like a review. I enjoy math too, and I found college algebra in a 4-week Wintermester to be quite easy content-wise.
My question is: would it be unwise to take both chemistry and calculus as 5-week courses, even though I have a strong passion for these subjects?
It’s great that you’re so passionate about chemistry and are invested in your studies! Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to take both classes in the 5-week format:
Workload and Pace: A 5-week course is significantly more intensive than a 10-week course. You’ll be covering a lot of material in a short period. Since you have a strong background in chemistry, that might help, but calculus can be quite different.
Learning Style: Reflect on how you typically handle fast-paced courses. If you thrive under pressure and can effectively manage your time, the 5-week option could work for you. However, if you find that you need more time to digest complex concepts, it may be better to consider the 10-week option for one of the subjects.
Relevance to Your Major: Since you’re majoring in chemistry and enjoy it, focusing on general chemistry, even in a 10-week format, might solidify your understanding and be incredibly beneficial.
Balancing Both Subjects: Taking both classes at once may lead to challenges, especially if the subjects overlap in the content or require a lot of problem-solving skills. Consider how comfortable you feel juggling assignments and studying for both simultaneously.
Your Academic Goals: Consider whether taking these courses in a shorter format aligns with your overall academic plan. If graduating in a particular way is important, weigh that against the potential stress of this intensive schedule.
Ultimately, it might be helpful to consult with your academic advisor or professors to get their perspective on the best option based on your strengths and goals. Good luck with your decision!