Is it a bad idea to take 19 units in 16 weeks, or delay O-Chem to next term?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of taking 19 units in 16 weeks, specifically including Calculus 3, Linear Algebra, Organic Chemistry 1, and Physics 1, while preparing for the MCAT and transferring from community college. Participants explore the intensity of the course load and the implications for academic performance.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the intensity of the proposed schedule, noting that Physics 1 relies on prior calculus knowledge and that Organic Chemistry could be particularly demanding.
  • Another participant questions the timing of taking the MCAT, suggesting that it may be premature given the participant's academic timeline.
  • Some participants argue that taking Organic Chemistry at community college may be easier and recommend proceeding with the current plan if it is necessary for timely graduation.
  • It is noted that while Linear Algebra and Calculus 3 may complement each other, Physics and Organic Chemistry are both high workload classes that could significantly impact free time.
  • A later reply mentions that managing 19 units at a community college may be less intense than at a university, suggesting that the experience could serve as preparation for future academic challenges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of the proposed course load, with some supporting the idea of taking all classes now and others cautioning against it. There is no consensus on whether the schedule is advisable or manageable.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight various assumptions about workload intensity, the relationship between courses, and the implications of transferring to a university. The discussion does not resolve these assumptions or provide a definitive assessment of the proposed schedule.

Amy1127
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In order to transfer on time from community college and prepare for the MCAT I have to really scrunch my classes. I was planning on taking Calc 3, Liner Algebra, O Chem 1, and Physics 1 (mechanics) at a whopping total of 19 units in 16 weeks. Is this doable? I would not be working and all of my attention would be on school. Or would you suggest that I take ochem at a UC? Thanks everyone!
 
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This seems pretty intense. Physics 1 would use Calc 1 and 2 concepts so if you did well in those courses then your learning curve will be manageable.

Calc 3 gets into multi-variable topics like surface and volume integrals as well as vector topics which I should think will be somewhat intense. Linear algebra has some new concepts which you may not have seen before and so could be equally intense. Taking Chem would probably be pushing your luck a lot unless you have a really strong academic drive and don't plan to socialize at all.

If you have friends who've taken these courses, I'd suggest talking to them about your plans or even your academic advisor.

To get an idea of the course content for Calc 3 and Linear Algebra take a look at the site:

www.mathispower4u.yolasite.com

There are a collection of videos on the topics covered in each of these courses and see if they look familiar at all. From that you can gauge how tough it will be.

Other mentors should chime in here shortly.
 
Amy1127 said:
In order to transfer on time from community college and prepare for the MCAT I have to really scrunch my classes. I was planning on taking Calc 3, Liner Algebra, O Chem 1, and Physics 1 (mechanics) at a whopping total of 19 units in 16 weeks. Is this doable? I would not be working and all of my attention would be on school. Or would you suggest that I take ochem at a UC? Thanks everyone!

Why are you taking the MCAT so early? It sounds like you are just now finishing your 2nd year of university, right?

https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat/faq/421618/when-should-i-take-the-mcat-exam.html
In most cases, you should take the MCAT exam in the calendar year prior to the year in which you plan to enter medical school.
 
berkeman said:
Why are you taking the MCAT so early? It sounds like you are just now finishing your 2nd year of university, right?

https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat/faq/421618/when-should-i-take-the-mcat-exam.html
Well I want to have time to study. Also, what if I don't have time to take it once I transfer? Since engineering major courses are pretty rigorous.
 
O chem will be a lot easier at community college I would suggest doing it now if you can.

Linear algebra and calc 3 compliment each other well and are not that heavy on the work. Physics and O chem are both high workload classes though and will eat up a lot of your free time.

If you need to do it to graduate on time then do it. You know it will be a tough schedule but its perfectly doable. I have friends who did heavier schedules(or similar) at community college now at berkley and ucla and they feel the work at those schools even with less classes is much more intense. So it will be good practice for what is to come.
 
Amy1127 said:
Well I want to have time to study. Also, what if I don't have time to take it once I transfer? Since engineering major courses are pretty rigorous.
If you think taking 19 hours in a semester at CC is a lot, wait till you get to big college. 19 semester hours for an engineering curriculum is not unusual.
 

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