General Chemistry Troubles

[eagle135]

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Hey guys!

I'm in a bit of a conundrum. Like many general chemistry classes around the nation, it's not exactly a piece of cake. On the first and second tests, I got a 59 and 64 respectively. After I got the grade back on my first test, I made sure to go to tutoring sessions and do as many book problems as possible in the week leading up to the test. I even re-did my notes so I could learn it all over again. Now that I got my second test back, I don't know what to do anymore. Should I withdraw from the class and take the "W" on my transcript? Please help!

Thank you!

 

[SnakeOilForSale]

One W is not a big deal, but if you are struggling this much with Gen Chem 1 then you really have to find the root of the problem. Dropping is only a temporary fix.

 

[PlaqueBuster]

If you do not have any W's then yes take the W and replan to tackle this course. But you should really find out what went wrong on these two tests and your study habits. You do not want to repeat this for the same course or for another pre-req science. Something I can suggest from reading your post is do not study a week before the exam if you are struggling in the class. Study from day 1 and study gradually building off topics so that material sinks in and stays with you. Go to office hours and chat with your professor (not just the TA's). read the book and take notes fromt he book. Lecture notes only help so much.

Overall, Gen chem is a simple course compared to organic Chemistry or other upper level classes. Therefore, expect things to get harder and until you fix this issue you probably will find other classes the same way.

 

[rangoon1984]

What were the class averages? Do you think there will be a curve? Consult with your prof about where you stand before you do anything.

That said, it will get a lot more complicated in the pre reqs so you need to find study methods that work for you.

 

[eagle135]

@rangoon1984: He doesn't do curves.

How do medical schools view W's on transcripts?

 

[rangoon1984]

The general consensus seems to be 1-2 W's are ok but any more than that and you have to be able to explain it, otherwise it looks like you consistently bail when things get tough.

 

[jqueb29]

I had 5 W's and got in fine. If thats the biggest problem with your application, you'll be perfectly fine.

 

[ProudMD]

I had 5 W's and got in fine. If thats the biggest problem with your application, you'll be perfectly fine.

I also have multiple W's (fewer than 5) and got into my top choice. You'll be fine.

 

[outdoorsmd]

I also struggled in Gen Chem 2nd semester. It was my freshman year and I was also taking Bio, had a new girlfriend, and 2 campus jobs. It was crazy. I ended up with a C+ and I was really worried about how I would do in Orgo too. So far Orgo has been WAY easier for me and I currently have an A. So you never know. I'm much better at the Orgo concepts and find I really like it. I absolutely hated Gen Chem.

 

[eagle135]

So do you guys think I should just stick it out?

 

[rangoon1984]

@eagle135
If there's no curve like you say and those tests were major parts of your grade I would drop it.

 

[Bottle]

Hold on. When you said that you made sure you did all the text book problems in the week following the exam, does that mean you don't do problems on daily or weekly basis? If so, this might be your problem.