Math is my downfall, how much of it will I need?

[Damian1990]

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I won't make excuses here. The fact is I'm inept at anything requiring more than basic math. I barely managed to pull out a B in intermediate algebra, and I've put many extra hours into it. In fact, I've devoted so much time to math that it takes away from the time I have to do other coursework, thus effecting my grades. It worries me and I realize it could hinder my chances of ultimately ending up in med school.

 

[Mobius1985]

There are many med schools that require Calculus I or Statistics. You can take non-Calc based Physics, but it will still require a lot of math, as will Chemistry.

 

[tennisball80]

You will need lots of Algebra in Chemistry and Physics

 

[MissIrish]

You can take Trig-based Physics; I did terribly in algebra as well and found Trig to be more understandable but I still required a lot of practice in order to get it. I have also take Statistics and it too was easier for me to understand than Algebra.

Look into which schools require calc and which do not; I did a google search on this recently and found a list that was a year or two old. The MSAR will also give you this information. Many that do not require it recommend it, which, IMO, means it is necessary in order to compete with the other applicants. The DO schools I have looked at do not require it.

I'm taking an Intro to General Chem right now and there has been some basic algebra. I still panic slightly when I open up to the next chapter and see math is involved but once I do the practice problems I feel a lot better.

From one non-math person to another, we can do this!

 

[sarahl86]

Its ok, I sucked at math too. I somehow managed to get B's in Calculus though and suffered through Calc-based Physics (worst idea ever) - you'll be surprised at what you can pull off when you put 110% to it. That, and you can't have a calculator for the MCAT but the most you'll need is algebra and trig for Chemistry and Physics...MCAT prep classes teach you basic math shortcuts too. It sucks, but you have to make friends with math at least for a little while. Check to see what options your school has for tutoring - I was a tutor for Gen Chem and it helped me immensely!