<p>I'm majoring in chemical engineering as a member of the class of '17. Junior year, I took AP Chem and got a 5 fairly easily. Studying never felt like a chore; it was, in fact, quite enjoyable. I felt that I had a firm grasp on the course material. With my AP credit, I could elect to move immediately to Chem 102 (after spending some time reviewing my notes from last year, of course). However, I'm pretty set in my decision to retake gen chem in college. The class taught at Penn will certainly have more depth, breadth, etc., providing me with a better foundation for future studies. My question is this: how does AP Chem compare with Chem 101? Is it easier/harder (in comparison to the AP exam for the sake of standardization)? How much more material does Chem 101 cover? How is the material different? Will I be graded on a curve against mostly STEM-oriented peers who have already gotten 5's in AP Chem, or mostly students looking to fulfill a science requirement? How is the curve set up? How hard is it to get an A? Any general comments on the Chemistry Department at Penn would also be appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>My son is in Vagelos MLS and was pretty much in the same boat as you.
He decided to take Honors Chem 115 rather than 101 and I don’t think he regretted it.
You might think about doing the same.</p>
<p>In Chem101 you spend quite a bit of time studying quantum chemistry, which is not covered under a typical AP chem curriculum. The department curve that I had experienced last semester was a B- I believe. There are 3 midterms and a final, with 100 points dropped (the equivalent of 1 midterm). It is possible to get an A, but you really do need to take the time to study the material because it is a required class for a variety of majors, as well as a premed requirement. If you really feel you can do it, Chem115 might not be a bad idea. I took AP but decided to take chem101, which I feel is often a popular choice for first semester students looking to just adjust to the rigor with a subject where they have some background.</p>