Can a 13-Year-Old Plan Their Physics and Math College Path Effectively?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a 13-year-old's concerns about planning a college path in physics and mathematics, including course selection and the implications of advanced placement classes. The scope includes theoretical considerations, personal reflections on academic choices, and advice on managing high school experiences.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that cramming self-study Physics C in junior year may not be advisable due to the stress of other courses.
  • There is a viewpoint that physics majors often take many math classes, potentially nearing a minor in mathematics, but obtaining a second bachelor's degree may require additional coursework.
  • Others argue that no AP course is strictly necessary for pursuing a physics or math major, as they primarily serve to advance placement rather than fulfill major requirements.
  • It is noted that the acceptance of AP Calculus BC for college credit varies by institution, with some granting credit for the first two semesters and others not at all.
  • Concerns are raised about the long-term enjoyment of a physics career if one dislikes certain areas of mathematics, although it is suggested that many who pursue physics do not regret their choice.
  • Participants clarify that differential equations typically follow calculus courses and are considered a separate subject.
  • Some express that it is premature for the original poster to be overly concerned about college planning at such a young age, advocating for a more balanced approach to high school.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement regarding the timing and necessity of specific courses, as well as the overall approach to college planning. There is no consensus on the best strategy for managing high school coursework in relation to college aspirations.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the variability of college policies regarding AP credits and the subjective nature of personal experiences in high school and college planning.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for young students considering advanced coursework in physics and mathematics, as well as their parents or educators looking for insights into managing academic pressures and college preparation.

Nietsnie314
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Hello fellow members... I'm new to the forum(s).
And yes, I'm a little young, I'm 13, but why not get a head start and indulge myself in endless knowledge, eh?
Yes, my username is Einstein backwards and the first 3 numbers of pi without the decimal point.
Go figure.

Okay, just to clear things up:
My prospective high school doesn't offer AP Physics C (what a pain), nor AP Stats. Without further ado:

1. Should I cram self-study Physics C with all my other tough courses in Junior year, or place it in the much less stressful senior year to devote it more time...but we submit college applications in Junior year, right? (Yes, I've planned out the next 4 years of my life.)

2. How many more math classes do you have to take for a Math major with a Physics major?

3. Is AP Stats really needed for a Physics/Math double major?

4. Does AP Calc BC count as College Calculus 1 or 2, and how many college equivalent semesters?

5. I really like Astrophysics... I hate Geometry... Algebra is interesting. Will I hate my job for the rest of my life if I shoot for Physics or will I be okay with it?

6. Is Differential Equations completely separate from college calculus? Which normally comes first, Calculus 2/3 or Differential?

Danke schön.
 
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Let me give this a crack. No, no, no, no, and no. Wait that doesn't work..

1. No, combining craming and self-studying into anything is never good
2. Many many. Physics majors do end up usually being 1 or 2 classes away from getting a math minor in the first place. However getting the 2nd bachelors takes a bit more doing, at least another years worth of courses if not 2.
3. No, actually no AP course is required to do anything. All it does it get you one low level class out of the way (and in the case of stats, that might not get anything out of the way) ahead of time.
4. This is 100% college specific. Some will get you the first 2 semesters with Calc ABC, some may give you no credit at all for anything, it's entirely dependent on what university you look at.
5. You're way too young to think this far ahead. Then again, one can probably safely say "no" since I've never heard anyone who does physics say "I hate my job because of *some sort of math*". If you never do grow to like (or at least accept) the mathematics, you'll switch to another major at some point.
6. Differential equations is after (at least in every case I've heard, I believe people do take it concurrently with it though) and separate.
 
Thank you...
You're right, I didn't think putting Physics Junior year would be the greatest thing to do...
Ha. I find this strangely amusing, I'm not even in high school yet, and I bother over things decades away.
Still, I do like to have an idea of what I'm doing.
 
Nietsnie314 said:
but we submit college applications in Junior year, right?

Only if you're planning to graduate from high school at the end of your junior year. :wink:
 
Don't be worried if you can't take physics at your high school. You can always take an algebra based physics course your first year in college, then start the calculus series of physics. You should try to take all the math you can in high school. Most physics degree plans start with Calculus the first semester (or quarter) you enroll.
 
Only if you're planning to graduate from high school at the end of your junior year. ;)

I would be able to, but who would want to pass up senior year?
That's good news... more time to think...
 
seriously you're way too young to be worrying about college... the best way to get into college is to NOT think about it (ok you can plan) for your first 2 years then start the middle/end of junior year tackling the issue rather than worrying about it the first two years because...

A) You will do poorly because you will be GPA conscious
B) You won't have as much fun as the guy who has a level head but is not engrossed in the issue
C) You will do activities/clubs etc. that you think colleges "want" you to do... hurting your originality... and thus your chances in the long run

I am currently a high school junior and i wish i heeded this advice in freshman year, and took more risks than i did... high school is about exploring and growing, not getting into college... trust me
 

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