Uhm, hi. I'll be starting college soon and I'm just curious to know: what are some of the most frustrating classes that students usually take? I know this may vary depending upon individual interests and how much effort one puts in, but are there any classes that are universally known for being particularly challenging or frustrating?
Certainly, the "most frustrating" courses can indeed vary depending on individual strengths and weaknesses. However, there are a handful of classes that many students might find challenging due to the difficulty of the content, intensity of the workload, or a combination of the two.
Organic Chemistry (also known as Orgo or O-chem): Typically a second-year class for science majors, organic chemistry involves the study of carbon-containing compounds. It's notoriously difficult due to the sheer volume of material to memorize and the complex nature of the interactions being studied.
Calculus (especially Calculus 2): While Calculus 1, which introduces concepts like limits, derivatives, and integrals, can be challenging, Calculus 2 seems to be a stumbling block for a lot of students. Here, they dig deeper into integrals and start studying sequences and series, which can be quite abstract and tricky.
Physics: This class includes a lot of mathematical modeling and abstract concepts, which can be particularly tough if you're not a fan of math.
Introduction to Literature or English Composition: Mostly taken by first-year students, these courses often involve heavy amounts of reading and writing. They can be quite challenging for students who struggle with time management, as well as for those who find it difficult to express their thoughts in writing.
Foreign Languages: While not inherently difficult, foreign language classes can be demanding due to the daily preparation, frequent quizzes, and need for practice outside of classroom hours. The difficulty of the language being studied can also play a role.
Finally, it's important to remember that just because a class has a reputation for being difficult, doesn't mean you should avoid it if it's something you're interested in or if it's required for your major. Plenty of students find these classes rewarding despite their challenges, and the skills acquired can be incredibly valuable. Plus, colleges often offer resources like tutoring and study groups to provide extra support for these challenging courses.
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