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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

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Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Most Challenging College Classes?

Hey guys, no fear here, I want to know - what are some of the hardest classes you can take in college? Understanding the tough ones may help me plan well for my course load in the future.

a year ago

It really depends on the major or field of study and also varies from person to person based on their strengths and weaknesses. However, here are some classes that are famously difficult across many different universities.

1. Organic Chemistry: This class, fondly known as OChem, is intensive and can be quite a memorable experience. Many pre-med and biology students tend to find this challenging because of the substantial memorization and conceptualization required.

2. Quantum Physics/Quantum Mechanics: These courses delve deep into abstract scientific theories. The complex mathematical equations involved often make these classes a challenging prospect for even the brightest of physics majors.

3. Advanced Calculus or Real Analysis: This isn't your high school calculus. These courses cover some hair-pullingly complex concepts, with lots of proofs and analytical thinking needed.

4. Advanced Programming or Operating Systems: For CS majors, courses like these require a deep understanding of coding languages, algorithms, and software design. They're notorious for their extensive, time-consuming projects.

5. Advanced Linguistics: Deciphering and analyzing language structures can be incredibly intricate and often a headache for students.

6. Biochemistry: Another tough cookie for pre-med or biology majors. It's a fusion of the concepts from biology and chemistry, both in depth, escalating its difficulty.

7. Philosophy: This might surprise some, but philosophy courses can be some of the most taxing because they require a great deal of analytical thinking and abstract reasoning.

Remember, what's difficult for one student may not be difficult for another, and a lot of it depends on your own intellectual strengths and interests. The key is to balance your schedule. If you know you're going to take a heavy-hitter, try to pair it with some less intense classes. And never hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling – professors, TAs, or study groups can be instrumental in navigating these rigorous courses.

a year ago

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