Community College or Self Study Senior Math

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

Hello all.
Attempting to do some Linear Algebra and probably Calculus based Probability for senior year. I am homeschooled so I essentially self studied AP Calculus BC and got a 5. I like the idea of picking up textbooks and just working through them in a similar manner for Linear Algebra and Probability, but I have a couple questions.

First, am I missing out on anything with just the textbook? I have heard that Linear Algebra can be taught in a more proof based manner so having a teacher in that scenario could be very helpful.

On the other hand, I am trying to get into a top CS University such as MIT or CMU, are Community College courses rigorous enough? (Not for tranfer credit, but just to view for admission). And beyond admission, if I can be more rigorous with a textbook and learn more then I would prefer that option.

Thanks in advance for any and all replies!

2

I’m in a similar situation as you. I Independent Studied Calculus BC this year, and I am taking Differential Equations next year at a private, four-year college through DE. In my opinion, I think taking a CC class is better than teaching yourself in terms of admissions. Through a class, you get a grade and something to show for it from a professor. You also have someone to ask all your questions. I’m sure it might not be ~as~ rigorous at a CC as another school, but math curriculum is usually very similar, and IMO, I feel like it would look better to take the class at a CC.