Surviving Freshman Year: Toughest Classes?

Hello everyone. Kinda stressed as I'm heading into my freshman year in college soon. I've heard horror stories about certain freshman classes - does anyone have any insight into which ones are most commonly failed?

Hey there! From what I've heard, it's worth noting that "tough" classes can vary significantly depending on individual strengths and majors. However, a couple of courses do stand out as traditionally challenging for many freshmen:

1. General Chemistry: Often a prerequisite for many science-based majors, 'Gen Chem' can catch students off guard due to its pace and complex concepts. It generally involves a lot of memorization, math skills, and lab work.

2. Calculus: Many colleges require at least one semester of calculus, especially for STEM majors. Some students find the abstract concepts and heavy workload difficult to handle, especially when transitioning from high school math.

3. Introduction to Physics: Much like Chemistry, physics often involves complex theoretical concepts and calculations. This class has been known to be difficult for students who aren't comfortable with math or abstract thinking.

4. Introductory Biology: While this class is often heavy on memorization, many students struggle due to the amount of information they need to retain. It requires a deep and thorough understanding of microscopic processes and biological systems.

5. Humanities Foundational Courses: For students not used to heavy amounts of reading and writing, broad, theory-heavy humanities classes can feel overwhelming. Interpreting dense texts, writing analytical essays, and understanding complex theories can pose a challenge.

6. Economics 101: While the subject matter in this class isn't always inherently difficult, the conceptual nature of the subject and the need to understand and apply abstract theories can make it challenging.

Try not to stress too much! Remember, everyone struggles at times, and it's part of the learning process. Be sure to leverage resources like office hours, study groups, tutoring services, and academic assistance centers at your college. Remember, it's okay to drop a class or take it pass/fail if it becomes too overwhelming. Best of luck!