freaking out about college...plz help me!!?

Question

I go to college soon...and i've never taken chemistry. I'm planning on going pre-med, but i fear that this lack of knowledge will inhibit me. I take chem first semester, and figured i would prepare a little bit before hand. So, I bought the idiots guide to chemistry. However, now i have so many questions that need answering, and i feel so overwhelmed.

Is there any hope for me? I really want to make the most out of college.

Answer 1

Definitely there is hope for you. You just need to take chemistry in college. Many people don't make that decision until they get to college, so you won't be alone.

Answer 2

There's clearly a problem with the textbook you purchased. There are a lot of quick-fix academic textbooks that are written poorly and and also written on the assumption that you already know the subject and are just trying to review for some test.

If you know where you're going to go to college, and if you know what chemistry course you're going to take, give the college bookstore a call and ask what textbook the professor for that course has recommended. Buy a copy: this is a good time to buy textbooks because you'll have your pick of good used ones, so you can save some money.

Have a look through the textbook and don't faint. Most of the first part of chemistry covers subjects common to both chemistry and physics: how to measure things, and what sort of measurements we make. You'll learn about density and temperature and measurement errors and all the rest long before you touch your first chemical.

So the best thing to do is to get a copy of the textbook and look at it, and then take the time to review all of the mathematics involved in that first part of the course. There isn't much math, but there's some. Review fractions, units of measurement, some algebra, and some geometry. It's all in your high-school notes.

Answer 3

If you are serious about college, and specifically your degree, than you should be able to get through fine.

It is fine to enjoy college too and play sports or go to a few parties, but remember that you are really there to get your degree to help you in your future endeavours.

Chemistry is a difficult subject and it is good you have started reviewing some. Just start with the first level chemistry in your college and go from there. I highly advise finding people to study with. I did physics for my BS degree and not until late junior year did I start studying with several people and it really helped! Go to office hours as well or find time before or after class to ask the professor questions. Nowadays there are a lot of online references too, such as Wikipedia, that may explain things in a different manner than your professor and give you a different perspective.

Also, even if the syllabus says homework is OPTIONAL and not to be turned in, DO IT!! I found the hard way in physics when I didn't care about homework that was not required and I struggled in those classes. Do at least some of the homework, to get a sense of the type of problems you will encounter. Professors often put one or two questions from homework on the tests. Try and understand things rather than memorizing them. Some formulas have to be memorized, but learn and understand concepts and ideas.

Good luck!

Answer 4

There's always hope - but why haven't you taken chemistry yet wanting to go into pre-med? Maybe this is not the major for you? College opens up a world of new possibilities and you may learn that pre-med is not the path you may want to venture towards. However colleges usually have counselors that will guide you through the pre-med prerequisites and offer you all the help you need to succeed. Don't worry, if you work hard enough, college will never be a waste of your time!

Answer 5

My bet is that most people have forgotten their chemistry by the time they get to college anyway. I'm sure many people are in the same boat and just take the most introductory course, study hard, and you should do fine. If you feel more comfortable studying beforehand---that's a very noble and prudent sentiment---but by no means is there a need to freak out. Talk to a student adviser once you get to college---most likely you have plenty of time to get your plan worked out and don't necessarily have to jump straight into your pre-med courses.

BTW...most people...even those like me who swear they never would...change their minds about what they really want to do after they get to college and explore disciplines a little bit. I changed my major three times after saying I absolutely knew I wanted to be an architect---then changed to linguistics, international studies, and am now a Business/Accounting/Econ major planning to go to lawschool.

It's good to have a plan and goals, but also don't focus too narrowly and keep an open mind about your options.

Answer 6

Don't stress. Chem ias hard but not impossible. There is always tutoring from grad students available. My advice is just that...seek a tutoring center early in the semester (look for the free ones first..most departments have something.) dont be afraid to ask questions!

Answer 7

Don't worry
I never took grade 12 chemistry, just grade 11 and never in university. But my friends who have said that the first year class is basically a repeat of chemistry you learn in highschool with some added kicks.

If you're good at math and geometry, you'll be good in chemistry ;)

Answer 8

Sign out a different Chemistry book from the library. You can start in the kids section and work your way up. That way, you will feel more confident.

Answer 9

get a tutor ask teachers for help and don't not ask questions. u'll be fine if u stick to that