<p>Hey, sorry to be asking so many questions, but I wanted to ask for opinions of current engineers. </p>
<p>Except for Differential Equations, I've taken topics covered in MATH 192 (I'll use my AP credit), MATH 193 (Took Multivar last semester, and I've learned all the topics mentioned in the course description, so I'm thinking about taking the department test to skip), and MATH 294 (Taking Linear Algebra now, but I don't see an option to skip it). My Multivar and Lin Alg classes are in co-enrollment with George Mason University, so they can be used as transfer credits. I was wondering if any current Cornell engineers that have taken these classes in high school took them again in Cornell for reinforcement purposes, and if so, was it a waste of time? Or did you learn new things that you felt were left out in high school?</p>
<p>And also, on a side note, what about skipping Intro to Physics courses? I got 5's on my AP Physics C test, but I took it last year, so maybe I should take the class? Maybe I'll study up a bit before going to Cornell? Does any current engineer have a bit of advice for me? Thanks in advance for your help.</p>
<p>1) Just to clarify:
Math 191 is BC Calc Material
Math 192 is Multivariable
Math 293 is Diff.Eq
Math 294 is linear algebra</p>
<p>2) Seeing that you did take this classes in a college setting, it is really up to you. I placed out of Math 191 and ended up really regretting it since I didn't quite remember sequences and series (which is pretty important for Math 293 and Fourier series). Also, we hadn't learnt hyperbolic functions. But if you feel you've covered much of the syllabus try it and see. If it does seem scary or intimidating, then drop down to the lower level (there's no shame in doing so). If, however, you can place out of Math 192, I would do it. Math 192 in the fall is extremely competitive and even if you know the material, it ends up being a big challenge because so many people with different math backgrounds are taking it.</p>
<p>3) About Physics: It really depends on your major. I took AP Physics B in high school, didn't do too well on the exam, but managed to do decently in Physics 112 here with a moderate amount of studying. </p>
<p>As a general rule: If you feel like you don't have the confidence to take a higher level class, don't take it. Confidence, here, plays a huge rule in your performance on exams and your success in the course.</p>
<p>Phys 112 is a VERY important class. The material you learn in that class is crucial in subsequent classes, especially for mechanical and civil engineers (fro personal experience). I recommend you do not skip it.</p>
<p>i would suggest to not place out of anything just because taking the lower level or even intro classes allow you to get used to the department and really learn what they want you to know. an AP class in high school is equivalent to about 1 (or even half of) semester in college, and you cover so much more in detail here. dont just take a higher level class becuase itll make you look "smarter" and be "more impressive".</p>
<p>I guess I wanted to avoid as many remedial courses as possible, so that I take advantage of the opportunities (such as wide variety of advanced courses) at the university. I agree that I'll probably have gaps in my knowledge of I skip, but do you think that if I brush up on the subjects during the summer, that would be sufficient?</p>
<p>i really dont think a "summer study" will be sufficient unless you take summer courses at cornell. you will have so many opportunities to take those high level classes sophomore year and beyond. its just freshman year when you have to deal with the basics</p>
<p>Sounds like you have a very strong background in math. How well do you think you learned multivariable? They offer placement tests during orientation, so I would suggest taking those to see how well you do. I can't say anything since I haven't taken linear algebra yet, but trying a placement test might for that might also be a good idea. But if you end up completing your math track with diffEq first semester, you're going to have a lot of room to do things, like minors, co-op, study abroad, etc. </p>
<p>Physics 112 is pretty important, but it was also on the easy side. I took it since I was considering mechE, but if you're going for something else, as far as I know it's not going to be a huge deal if you skip it. I'm finding physics 213 (E&M) a little more challenging and worthwhile, so you might want to consider retaking that if you want. In any case, you should still brush up on the material over the summer.</p>
<p>Also, I've heard from a lot of people that multivariable is the hardest of the four basic engineering math courses. Having never seen the material, I found it challenging but interesting. Not sure how it would go for you, but I thought it was a good class. DiffEq has been pretty straightforward except for Fourier series stuff and partial differential equations.</p>
<p>I took both MV and linear algebra in high school. I took the placement test for 192 but didn't pass and took it first semester and it ended up being one of my worst classes gradewise my whole time here. I would recommend taking credit for 191 if you feel comfortable with the material.
As for physics 112, if your major doesn't involve very much physics, take the credit. Its not really worth your time and you can use the extra time in your schedule to get a head or give yourself a break.</p>
<p>if you pass the placement tests then skip it</p>