Retaking Chemistry Class: Is It a Bad Thing for Engineering Majors?

  • Thread starter Ryuk1990
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In summary, My plan is to major in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering. I'm also considering computer science. All of those majors are in my university's school of engineering. One requirement for engineering school is to take general chemistry which is what I'm doing right now for my first semester. I did pretty bad on my first two exams so I'm not feeling too confident about getting a good grade in that class.
  • #1
Ryuk1990
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My plan is to major in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering. I'm also considering computer science. All of those majors are in my university's school of engineering. One requirement for engineering school is to take general chemistry which is what I'm doing right now for my first semester. I did pretty bad on my first two exams so I'm not feeling too confident about getting a good grade in that class. It's not that I don't like chemistry, but it's more of that chemistry doesn't like me. :-\ In all seriousness though, I guess I'm just not putting enough effort into that class. I need to practice solving chemistry problems everyday instead of the night and morning before an exam.

Do graduate schools and employers view that as a bad thing when someone retakes a class? I'm pretty sure the transcript only shows your better grade but it still marks you as retaking the class. Anyone have any ideas on this?

However, if I do pass the class but still end up having a bad grade, would graduate schools and employers really care about how well I did in chemistry during my 1st year considering chemistry isn't really that important for the majors I'm planning on going into?
 
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  • #2
I doubt it. Most people manage to blow up one (or even more) course as an undergrad. You should be glad (glad perhaps isn't the right term...what i mean to say is you shouldn't be depressed over it) this particular course has nothing much to do with your major ;p
 
  • #3
Sorry to comment on your thread, but I am kinda in your boat. I am taking Gen Chem right now. Boy did I bomb my first two exams. If anything I am really learning the material, well I think I am.. then I take a test..

Wel. rubrix has made me feel at ease about my chem grade..
 
  • #4
lol, I bombed my first chem exam too.
 
  • #5
Ryuk1990 said:
Do graduate schools and employers view that as a bad thing when someone retakes a class? I'm pretty sure the transcript only shows your better grade but it still marks you as retaking the class. Anyone have any ideas on this?
Not necessarily. But one needs to do much better the second time.

However, if I do pass the class but still end up having a bad grade, would graduate schools and employers really care about how well I did in chemistry during my 1st year considering chemistry isn't really that important for the majors I'm planning on going into?
Not really. If one does poorly one semester, then hopefully the next semester show improvement. Doing poorly the last semester would be iffy. Graduate schools may be less picky than employers.

Employers need proficient and reliable employees.
 
  • #6
Astronuc said:
Employers need proficient and reliable employees.
And graduate schools need warm bodies. :-p
 
  • #7
Do you know if you school has a special thing for freshman. I know at my university they have a freshman retake where if you fail a class during your freshman year, you can retake the class with no penalty.
 

FAQ: Retaking Chemistry Class: Is It a Bad Thing for Engineering Majors?

Is retaking chemistry class a common occurrence for engineering majors?

It depends on the individual student and their academic performance in the class. Some students may excel in chemistry and not need to retake the class, while others may struggle and choose to retake it for a better understanding of the material.

Will retaking chemistry class affect my chances of being accepted into an engineering program?

Retaking a class does not necessarily reflect negatively on a student's academic ability. Admissions committees typically consider a variety of factors, such as GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities, when evaluating applicants. Retaking a class alone is unlikely to significantly impact your chances of acceptance.

Will retaking chemistry class delay my graduation?

It depends on your individual academic plan and the availability of the course. Some universities may offer multiple sections of chemistry, making it easier for students to retake the class without delaying their graduation. However, if the course is only offered in certain semesters or if retaking the class causes you to fall behind in other required courses, it may delay your graduation.

Can I retake the class for a better grade even if I passed the first time?

Yes, some universities allow students to retake classes for a better grade. However, keep in mind that both attempts will likely appear on your transcript, and your overall GPA may be affected. It is important to consider whether retaking the class is worth the potential impact on your GPA.

Is it worth retaking chemistry class if I want to pursue a career in engineering?

It depends on your academic goals and the importance of chemistry in your chosen field of engineering. If chemistry is a crucial subject for your desired career path, it may be worth retaking the class for a better understanding of the material. However, if you have a good grasp of the concepts and your overall GPA is strong, it may be more beneficial to focus on other courses and extracurricular activities that align with your career goals.

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