<p>I am hoping to major in biology (or biochem, pre-med, something like that) and am considering Caltech. However, I'm slightly nervous about the physics requirement. </p>
<p>I am struggling in EM right now and am worried about the physics classes at Caltech. I don't want to spend most of my time studying and worrying over a subject I'm not particularly fond of. I am also considering Cornell CALS, but that would be at least twice as expensive for me and my parents want me to go to Caltech more. But at Cornell, I wouldn't have to take so many physics classes.</p>
<p>Are there any other bio majors like me who aren't that interested/strong in physics? How are the physics classes for you?
Thanks a bunch! =)</p>
<p>There are just a few others; there's a large and vocal group of students who just can't wait to be done with Physics. Granted, as a school we have a larger Physics requirement (and Math requirement, and Chem requirement, and lab requirement...) than science programs at other schools, especially liberal arts-centric colleges.</p>
<p>But there's lots of light at the end of the tunnel. For one, two terms of physics is pass/fail, so it doesn't make a difference how bad you consider yourself in physics. Two, you can elect to take practical track and then Ph 2 sophomore year. That'll make physics a lot easier (and your professor is a Nobel Laureate. It doesn't get much better than that). Three, every other freshman is also taking physics, so you'll have ample opportunities to work with other people (collaboration policy!) and not drown in problem sets. Four, if you really, really are struggling, you can always ask the Deans for a (free!) tutor--they keep a bunch of upperclassmen on retainer just for the purpose of tutoring students.</p>
<p>I would say that not coming here solely because of the physics requirement would be a mistake. It's only 5 trimesters out of 12, and you'll be a better scientist/biologist for the exposure.</p>
<p>Thanks so much! I was just really worried when i saw the requirements...statistical physics doesn't really sound that fun to me. I forgot that everyone else is going to be taking the same classes, which is really reassuring. Now I have one less question to ask during prefrosh weekend!</p>