Transition from Calc Based Physics to Gen Physics... good idea?

[Liz83]

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I am currently taking calc based physics I and have absolutely NO idea what is going on in the class. I will be taking my third exam next week and still do not know what my grade is in the class. My prof has not given any of our tests back. I am debating whether I should take general physics II next semester instead of calc based physics II. Is this frowned upon by med schools? The only reason I took the calc based course was because it fit into my schedule. Any advice?

 

[Wildebeest]

I'm pretty sure admission committees are indifferent as to whether you take calc based or not. I took calc based and didn't feel it was too bad, but it was definitely more difficult than general physics, obviously. If you feel you should stay in it, try getting a tutor. If it continues to be too difficult, than I think you would be ok in moving to general physics. Whatever you choose to do, I wish you well and am sure you will be fine!

 

[JJMrK]

Most premeds take general, algebra-based physics. Calc-based physics is not necessary for the MCAT. You should be fine.

 

[amakhosidlo]

I did it, things turned out just fine. Nobody cares what physics you take, really...

 

[Liz83]

So you went from Calc based to Gen physics? Where you asked about it during interviews?

 

[Premeddie]

I'm considering doing the same thing, because gen physics is autotutorial at my school, and would give me the chance to finish early and prep for the MCAT.

 

[softmed]

So you went from Calc based to Gen physics? Where you asked about it during interviews?

I've had like 15 interviews (counting places where there were two interviews) and not once have I ever been asked about a single undergraduate class (besides very general questions like "what was your favorite class?"). They really don't care as long as your grades are good. It will actually help you because it'll give you a better background for the Physics on the MCAT.

 

[minicow]

all these references to calculus-based physics caught my attention the other day so i checked the college's phys credit guide the other day...im guessing calc based is also called "university physics"?


right?

 

[softmed]

all these references to calculus-based physics caught my attention the other day so i checked the college's phys credit guide the other day...im guessing calc based is also called "university physics"?


right?

Every college has a different name for it (this is another good reason they'd probably never notice the transition from calc based to algebra based)

I know of at least four other names for Physics (algebra or calc based):

Physics
General Physics
College Physics
Analytical Physics

Neither an ADCOM nor an interviewer are going to look at your application in such detail that they'll notice you switched what type of physics you took. Even if they did, it's unlikely they'll care. If they do you have a perfect reason for switching: "I felt it was more applicable to the questions that would be found on the MCAT." See how easy that is? So just switch it if you think that's the right decision for you.