Schools Transferring to University from CC: Preparation advice

AI Thread Summary
Concerns about preparation for university-level mathematics, particularly in calculus, are common among students transitioning from community college to a university. The individual is set to take differential equations and calculus 3, expressing uncertainty about whether to review calculus 1 and 2 or to start studying future material independently. They acknowledge feeling well-prepared in math but note that their grades in calculus 1 and 2 were not as strong as desired. A significant factor in their transition is relocating closer to the university, which will allow for more study time and reduced work hours. There is a recognition that while community college instruction can be excellent, it may not always match the rigor of university courses. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-assessment and proactive preparation to bridge any gaps in knowledge as students move to higher academic levels.
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Hello all:

I just finished my last semester at a community college, and I'll be starting at a university in the fall. I'm a little concerned with my preparation, especially in mathematics. My major choices were nuclear engineering and physics on my application, so I could be majoring in either depending on the college of engineering's decision on my application.

I'm concerned that my classes at the community college level may not have adequately prepared me for the university's coursework. I'll be taking a fundamentals of differential equations class in the fall and calculus 3 in the spring regardless of major. Would it be more advantageous for me to review the calculus 1 & 2 material from my textbook over the summer, or should I begin studying the future material on my own? I've always felt that I was a good math student, but calculus 1 and 2 were among the few classes in which I made B's.

One advantage that I will have upon beginning at the university is that I will be moving to the city where the university resides. The past 3 semesters I've been commuting 10 hours per week because of the 2 hour round trip to the cc. I also plan to reduce my hours at work. I'm hoping the additional time will help in the fall, but I'm still concerned about the transfer.

Has anyone felt disadvantaged after transferring from a cc to a university? Is there a significant difference in course difficulty?

Thanks.

Edit:
I don't mean to discredit the instruction at my community college, because I have some great lecturers. I just feel like sometimes they don't test as rigorously as a university professor would.
 
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Your community college courses done for credit may not adequately prepare you for EVERYTHING as you continue at the university, but what you lack we cannot say through the forum. What you lack depends on you, your C.C., your university. You must find out what is missing as you go.
 
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