Is my Fall schedule too demanding?

In summary: I think it makes sense because it balances out the workload and makes sure you're not just breezing through the material.A normal work load is 5 classes per semester, so this looks like a pretty easy schedule. However, if you're looking to work full-time and maintain a good GPA, this may not be the best option.
  • #1
CSpence
8
0
Hey all,

I'm a CCC student right now pursuing a career in Aerospace Engineering. Right now my GPA is a 3.7 and I only intend for it to go higher. It would probably be a 3.8-3.9 if my Chem teacher didn't screw me over last semester, but that's besides the point. :P

This fall I'm taking:
Physics Mechanics of Solids - 4 Credits
Calculus I - 5 Credits
General Chemistry I - 5 Credits

My schedule is pretty hectic as well. On some days I have classes from 8:30am - 5pm. That's just too much, especially considering I want to work. I'm not sure what my counselor was thinking by not saying how difficult this could be.

I'm thinking of dropping Chemistry and adding in a filler course, but I doubt my college has many classes still available for Fall. Do you guys think this load is feasible for someone who wants to work? I don't see how people here manage to take 5 science/math/physics based courses a semester and maintain a good GPA.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Depends on how smart you are. Honestly that schedule doesn't look too bad for me, but I imagine the labs will be time consuming.
 
  • #3
fss said:
Depends on how smart you are. Honestly that schedule doesn't look too bad for me, but I imagine the labs will be time consuming.

I'm a pretty smart guy. It's not that I'm not smart enough for these classes but the work load may be mentally draining after a while. Especially for someone who works and wants to continue working.
 
  • #4
What is a CCC student?
 
  • #5
Mororvia said:
What is a CCC student?

California Community College
 
  • #6
That schedule looks fine. It's three classes.
 
  • #7
James LeBron said:
That schedule looks fine. It's three classes.

Agreed. A normal work load is 5 classes per semester.

How many hours a week are you in class or lab?
 
  • #8
Just out of curiosity, what year are you in? How come you are only taking Calc I now?
 
  • #9
Well, where I'm from, we measure class credits in terms of hours. I'm not sure if that is what your system uses or if there is a 1-1 correspondence between the two (how many credits do you need to get a BS, we need about 125 hours), but 5 credits seems like a lot for Calc I and Gen. Chem. The 4 seems right for Physics IF there is a lab.

There doesn't seem to be anything too demanding about this schedule. In fact, you probably need to add the filler class instead of adding it and getting rid of chem. I started college at a community college (Georgia Perimeter College) and took 4 or so classes a semester while working a full-time job. You should certainly add courses to this schedule. In fact, is there a programming class you can take? This seems like it would be really valuable if you want an AE career.
 
  • #10
I took that schedule. I survived quite well. Man up and do it.
 
  • #11
Assuming you took some intro chemistry course previously, General chemistry one should not be a problem at all. Perhaps time consuming with the labs, the the work is basically the same as your previous course most likely, with only some simple thermochemistry gas laws, and geometry added.
 
  • #12
Whether your schedule is too demanding or not hinges heavily on how much you intend to work during the week. So far you haven't given us a number, and even then we won't be able to tell you, since we don't know what you're capable of, but assuming work = 0 hours/week, this looks like a cruising schedule. As you add more work, this will of course change.
 
  • #13
Three classes doesn't seem bad at all, especially since they all relate to one another. You'll see overlap between calculus and physics and physics and chemistry.
 
  • #14
Looks like a pretty easy schedule to me. If you want to work consider finding a job, if possible, that will allow you to do homework or study during the down time. They're out there.
 
  • #15
This is as easy as it can get. So just do it.
 
  • #16
Yea this is a pretty normal easy-ish schedule. Prepare for much much worse if you plan on doing aero.

The only hitch is your work schedule, physics 1 and chem 1 had pretty hefty workloads when I took them. If you've got good self-discipline and time management skills then you could pull it off easily even working full-time or close to it.
 
  • #17
That's 14 credit hours, which seems pretty normal to me. However, if anything, that seems like a light schedule. Usually, calc and chemistry would be more like 3 credits, and 4 credits for Physics would be correct if there was an associated lab. Is there any particular reason why the courses are weighted so highly?
 
  • #18
Yea it is a lot of credits per class. At mine Calc is 4, chem is 3+1, and physics is 4+1. The +1s being the associated lab which are counted separately and you are not strictly required to take them simultaneously.
 
  • #19
Depends on ur ability. IMO, that schedule is just right, a bit light for me, depends on how much you can handle it
 

FAQ: Is my Fall schedule too demanding?

What factors should I consider when determining if my Fall schedule is too demanding?

When assessing your schedule, it is important to consider the number of credits you are taking, the difficulty level of your courses, your other commitments (such as work or extracurricular activities), and your personal study habits and time management skills.

How many credits is considered a demanding load for the Fall semester?

The number of credits that is considered a demanding load can vary depending on the individual and the institution. However, a typical full-time load for a Fall semester is around 15-18 credits. Anything above this may be considered a demanding load, especially if you have other commitments.

How can I balance a demanding Fall schedule with other commitments?

Balancing a demanding schedule with other commitments requires effective time management skills. Prioritize your tasks and create a schedule that allows for dedicated study time. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help or delegate tasks to others if needed.

What are some signs that my Fall schedule may be too demanding?

Some signs that your schedule may be too demanding include feeling overwhelmed and stressed, struggling to keep up with coursework, and neglecting other important aspects of your life such as sleep and self-care. It is important to listen to your body and recognize when your schedule may be too much to handle.

What should I do if I realize my Fall schedule is too demanding?

If you realize that your schedule is too demanding, it is important to take action before it becomes overwhelming. Consider dropping a course, speaking with your advisor about adjusting your schedule, or seeking help from a tutor or study group. Remember, it is better to take on a manageable workload and succeed, rather than overload yourself and struggle to keep up.

Similar threads

Studying Help How do I raise my GPA? I have a full schedule with hard classes
Replies
9
Views
2K
Fall 2016 Schedule: Preparing to Transfer for Fall 2017
Replies
13
Views
2K
Courses Is it Worth Retaking a "C" in Differential Equations?
Replies
9
Views
2K
Courses Is this a good idea for a 21-credit semester?
Replies
12
Views
2K
Is my Fall Schedule too Difficult?
Replies
8
Views
2K
Is This a Good 1st Semester Engineering Schedule?
Replies
5
Views
2K
Is my Schedule too Much to Handle with Work Study?
Replies
8
Views
3K
Admissions Dropped out for 5 years -- What are my chances at Grad schools?
Replies
3
Views
1K
Is this Fall schedule doable for a Physics/Math student aiming for all A's?
Replies
22
Views
3K
Is this Spring Schedule Too Difficult?
Replies
4
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top