do you have to be a chem-genius to major in Chem. Engineering?

<p>I'm having troubles deciding if Chemistry is right for me. I'm questioning if my grades have any correlation to how well I do in the major and possibly, in the workforce. Please offer some suggestions. </p>

<p>I am one out five juniors in my AP Chemistry class, with the rest seniors. I will complete the course with all A's. The thing of it is, I really don't think this "AP" class at my school can compare to different schools in different states. I just feel that I don't deserve my A's. For example: my teacher offers test retakes ( I get 75-89% the first time), a lot of E.C. which I do, and she's showing us our final exam before we take it. Besides the easy A, I have to admit I am a bit slow understanding concepts. I find myself memorizing, not learning. To put things into perspective, I expect a 3, maybe even a 2 on the upcoming AP exam just because I haven't learned much, only memorized a lot. I really do enjoy chemistry, however. Is it possible to take this major if you're not a chemistry beast that can do any problem given to you? I know I have the work ethic to grasp the material, I'm just worried if this is a major where you just have to be talented and gifted in the chemistry world. If it matters, I will most likely be attending Univ. of Michigan.</p>

<p>My second option is geology which generally includes a lot more field work, easier courses, less pay, but more flexibility. Or maybe even just chemistry, the science. What differences are there between Chemistry and Chemical Engineering? Pros and cons of each?</p>

<p>Some other stats: 3.9 unweighted GPA. 31 superscored ACT (33 Science). 3 AP Gov. Taking AP Language (5?) and Chem (3?) this year. Lit (4?), Bio (5?), Physics (3?), Calc AB (4?) or BC (3?) next.</p>

<p>No, you do not have to be a genius for any kind of engineering. It can help a lot but hard work is more important than being smart.</p>

<p>What were the nature of your test in AP Chemistry? Ours were made up of all past AP questions for multiple choice and free response therefore I know many people in my class raw scored 60’s and below before she adjusted to meet AP standards. What helped me succeed in this class was using my best friend: the text book. I understand where you are coming from with the memorization thing. That was something I learned was detrimental in AP Physics. It is imperative to not only memorize important things, but also understand why they work and how they connect to other areas of the curriculum. So learn from this experience and apply it to your future classes.</p>

<p>As far as engineering goes, you do not have to be a “genius” to do it.</p>

<p>Chemical Engineering will get you higher pay and better job opportunities than chemistry. ChemE involves more physics and math then just chemistry. But then, ChemE major at most schools require you to take chem courses like gen. chem, organic chem, and physical chem</p>

<p>From the sounds of it you don’t have a thing to worry about. The most important thing about any engineering discipline or major is just work ethic. Are you willing to put in the time to learn the material, and from the sounds of it you have the brains and the work ethic to be able to handle the courses. I currently attend the University of Michigan as a chem E student and can tell you that though the classes are hard as long as you study you will be fine. Also if you are a Michigan resident which you might be since you plan on attending U of M, I would talk to your counselor about possibly dual enrolling your senior year in Organic chemistry. I did that my senior year and believe me it will be a huge help when you get to college, plus the school has to pay for the course so thats nice also. Provided you pass the AP exam.</p>

<p>by the looks of it, do the ChE route - you will enjoy it and do well…</p>

<p>just be ready to work very hard</p>