Is the hype around Organic Chemistry real?

I'm considering majoring in chem, but I've heard horror stories about organic chemistry in college. Is it really as difficult as people make it sound or is it just a myth?

The reputation of organic chemistry is not unearned. This course can indeed be quite challenging for many students as it requires a deep conceptual understanding along with the ability to visualize in three dimensions, which can feel very different from other chemistry courses you might've taken before college.

However, the "horror" associated with organic chemistry is often due to a lack of preparation or ineffective study habits, rather than the subject itself being insurmountable. It's a subject that requires consistent effort and regular practice. It's not that the concepts are too difficult to understand, but they do build on each other. So if you miss a day, you might find yourself feeling lost.

That being said, everyone's strengths and weaknesses are different. Some students find organic chemistry more intuitive and easier to grasp than physical chemistry or analytical chemistry. Others may struggle more. A lot of your success in the class will come down to your learning style and study habits.

I would say, don't let the hype intimidate you if you're genuinely interested in chemistry. Make use of resources like office hours, study groups, and tutoring services if you need help, and ensure you stay on top of the material from the beginning of the semester. You might even find that you enjoy the puzzle-solving aspect of organic chemistry. It's a difficult course, but many students do well and even enjoy it.