First-Year Average: Questions for UBC Electrical Engineering Major

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a first-year UBC engineering student facing challenges with their academic performance, particularly in an elective psychology course and English. Key points include inquiries about the average grades required for admission into electrical engineering, alternative study options aligned with interests in physics, math, and programming, and concerns about GPA calculations after failing a course. It is noted that if the psychology course is retaken, only the second mark may be considered in the GPA, but there is a risk of failing again. The advice emphasizes consulting with an undergraduate advisor for tailored guidance, reassures that one poor grade won't define overall success, and encourages focusing on mastering course material rather than solely on grades. Additionally, it highlights that core courses may weigh more heavily than electives in GPA considerations.
yvonnars
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Hi guys
So I've just started my first year at UBC studying engineering. I plan to major in electrical in second year but I have messed up my average quite a bit so far.

I have miserably failed my elective (psychology 35% ... it's really not my thing, I regret so much for not dropping it). I am not doing so well in my English class either, I don't know my marks yet.

I have few question:

1. what is the average i need to get into electrical engineering at UBC?
2. And what other options might suit me? (i like physics math and programming courses and I do well in those)
3. Also since I failed psychology already and if i retake this course before i graduate, will my GPA be based on both the failed and the second mark or just the second mark?
4. if they use the second mark, and i have failed this course once already, is it worth the risk to retake it (cause i might fail it again that will be a total disaster)
5. My chem TA said he didn't do so well in first year but it didn't matter much at the end. How much will my marks affect me overall? let's say i fail one course and have a 60ish% average in first term (6 courses).

Thank you so much in advance!

Yvonne
 
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These are questions better directed to your undergraduate advisor. If I were you I'd set up an appointment or browse the walk-in advising hours. It's only your first year and failing psychology is really not the end of the world for an engineering major. You will have future classes that will help your gpa (assuming you don't fail hard at them). I advise you to retake it just to prove that you can do it if you apply yourself.

Be warned! Learn the material and apply it well, worry about the grades later.
 
The above advice is awesome. I just want to add that they may care a tiny bit less about your elective than they will about your core courses, but that's not guaranteed. Find out for sure.
 
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