Working full-time and taking math and science courses at night

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges and considerations of balancing full-time work with pursuing math and science courses at night, particularly in the context of transitioning to engineering. Participants share their experiences and thoughts on the feasibility of succeeding in higher-level courses while managing work commitments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confidence in their current performance in math and science classes but questions whether this is indicative of future success in engineering courses while working full-time.
  • Another participant argues that while hard work is crucial, individual limits vary, and one cannot know their capacity until they attempt the courses.
  • A participant suggests continuing with the Chemistry track while exploring Physics and Calculus, noting that many classes overlap with engineering requirements.
  • Advice is given to ensure job flexibility to accommodate class schedules, as university demands can differ significantly from community college.
  • One participant shares their experience of burnout from managing a heavy course load alongside full-time work, indicating the need for careful scheduling and possibly reducing credit hours.
  • Concerns are raised about the transition from community college to university, particularly regarding the increased demands of upper-division courses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of optimism and caution regarding the ability to balance work and study. There is no consensus on the best approach, as experiences and opinions vary widely.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of workload management and the potential for burnout, but specific strategies for balancing work and study remain unresolved. The discussion reflects differing experiences with course demands at community colleges versus universities.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering pursuing higher education in STEM fields while working full-time, particularly those interested in engineering or related disciplines.

machie
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I'm 27, work 45-50 hrs/week and attend community college at night. I'm just about finished with Precalc and Chem I and I've been acing every test and lab. I've gotten A's in every other class I've taken so far as well. It's going to take a very long time to finish even my A.S. in Chemistry, not to mention a B.S. at a university. I'm considering switching to engineering but a little hesitant because of how intensive and rigorous it will be. I've read a few posts about full-time workers considering engineering at night and the responses have varied. My question is, if I'm getting straight A's now in my math and science classes, is that enough to assume that I'll succeed in higher level maths and possibly engineering courses while working? I'm extremely motivated and I'm falling in love with the idea of being an engineer. I also don't want to kid myself.
 
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machie said:
My question is, if I'm getting straight A's now in my math and science classes, is that enough to assume that I'll succeed in higher level maths and possibly engineering courses while working?

No, that isn't enough to assume that you'll be a success at it. Hard work is obviously extremely important, and some people do find limits in what they can handle in work load and intellectually too but you'll never know which side you'll be on until you try. It is always a bit of a quandary when choosing a subject to study on a high level - you think you're interested in it so you want to give it a go, but are worried about potential pitfalls. Well, if you don't try - how much will you regret it?

I wouldn't say your age is a problem either, so don't worry about that.
 
I'm going to continue on the Chemistry track for now and see how I take to the Physics classes and Calc I, II and III. I'm excited about it and I know I would definitely regret it if I don't at least try, like you said. I'm pretty confident I'd be able to handle the Chemistry track and most of the classes can go towards the Engineering track as well. Thanks for the advice.
 
Hi Machie :)
I'm lower level undergrad also, but I just wanted to recommend some threads on here.

This one for engineering:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=15898

Also ZapperZ's "So you want to be a physicist" thread has some good advice you might be able to apply even though you want to be an engineer. I think as long as you're focused as you are and are willing to do whatever work it takes, you have a good chance at succeeding :) I'm in Calc I now and it wasn't as deadly as I thought it would be, but I found it is good to study a couple of chapters ahead (or even more). All the best to you! :biggrin:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=240792
 
machie said:
I'm going to continue on the Chemistry track for now and see how I take to the Physics classes and Calc I, II and III. I'm excited about it and I know I would definitely regret it if I don't at least try, like you said. I'm pretty confident I'd be able to handle the Chemistry track and most of the classes can go towards the Engineering track as well. Thanks for the advice.

That's a good plan - you really should at least try it to see how you like it. And like you said, the curricula are similar enough that you don't have to decide right away.

Btw, I worked and took classes part-time to get my degree, too. It's a long slog, hang in there and good luck!
 
Make sure you have a flexible job. Once you start at a university, at least at mine, their hours suck for full time workers. Next semester I am taking classes during a long lunch then back to school after work.

Plus, as I found out this semester, once you get into higher level courses, you need to spend more time with school work. 16 credit hours and 40 hours a week is killing me. I am so burnt out this time. Plus you don't get enough time to learn things in depth. I only manage do the homework and then learn it well enough to do well on the test.

Needless to say this can be fixed by taking less credit hours, which I am doing next semester. :)
 
Once you get ready to go to a 4 year school, I'd re-examine your schedule. Demands at a CC vs a University can be pretty different especially when all you have left to take are upper division classes.
 

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