Most Failed College Classes?

So, I've been hearing some horror stories about super tough classes at colleges and that's got me a little worried. Just out of curiosity, which courses tend to have the highest fail rates at colleges? I wanna avoid them if I can, lol. Additionally, any advice on how to succeed in such classes if I end up having to take one?

Courses with high fail rates can vary by college, but there are a few subjects that tend to be generally challenging for students across institutions. Some commonly difficult classes include:

1. Organic Chemistry — This course is known for its breadth and depth, and for requiring students to learn complex concepts at a fast pace and apply them to problem-solving. Additionally, at many schools, "Ochem" is what's known as a weeder class for pre-med students, which means professors intentionally make it difficult, to ensure pre-med students are truly committed to becoming doctors.

2. Physics — Calculus-based Physics can be tough due to the heavy application of mathematics and abstract concepts. This class often trips up engineering and science students who are strong in math but struggle to apply those skills to real-world situations.

3. Calculus — Though many students find calculus manageable, others struggle with the abstract concepts and extensive problem-solving involved. This class is typically a requirement for STEM majors and can be challenging if you're not well prepared.

Now, to succeed in these challenging courses, here are a few tips:

1. Seek Help Early — One of the biggest reasons students struggle in tough classes is because they fall behind and can't catch up. As soon as you feel lost or overwhelmed, reach out to your professor, TA, or a tutor for assistance. Many colleges have academic support centers with free tutoring and resources to help.

2. Attend Office Hours — Professors and TAs often have office hours where you can ask questions, clarify concepts, and seek guidance. Taking advantage of this resource can help you better understand the material and improve your problem-solving skills.

3. Create a Support Network — Form study groups with classmates or join related clubs to encourage collaboration and peer support. Your fellow students are valuable resources, as they are going through the same learning process and can provide different perspectives or tips on the coursework.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice — Challenging courses often require hands-on problem-solving. Be prepared to spend time outside of class working through problems and applying new concepts. This practice will help solidify your understanding and build confidence in your problem-solving abilities.

5. Break Down Material — Instead of trying to digest an entire chapter or complex concept in one sitting, break down the material into smaller, manageable chunks. Spend time on each part before moving forward, and make sure to revisit previous concepts throughout the semester to strengthen your understanding.

While some students do avoid these difficult courses, remember that college is an opportunity to challenge yourself and develop your skills. Overcoming challenges in these classes can lead to increased resilience and a stronger academic foundation. And perceived difficulty can also be subjective - even if the material is challenging, if you're genuinely interested in it, you may find it more approachable than concepts that are generally considered easier, but aren't interesting to you.

Just go in prepared and ready to seek help when needed, and you'll be well on your way to conquering even the toughest of courses! Good luck!