<p>Hey,
Like it says in the title, I’ll be a CSE Freshman this Fall, and I need some advice about balancing my first class load. I won’t be able to go to Orientation (I’m out of state), so I’m also wondering how I go about doing the mandatory advising for the Engineering College. I did PSEOP at another uni that was on semesters, so I’m not sure about the rigor and study time I’ll need to set aside, because I’ll also be working part time while I’m there. </p>
<p>1) How rigorous is MAT 21A, and will taking it concurrently with ECS 30 be doable, with two GE courses?
2)How rigorous are Chem 2A and Physics 9A?</p>
<p>1.) It really depends on you. There are some people who take 4+ core classes as a freshman and others who take the bare minimum (3 easy GEs).
2.) With the above stated: I would take 2 core classes and 1 GE (2 if you’re feeling REALLY good about yourself). Test out how you can take that workload and adjust it over future quarters from there. Use 1st/2nd quarter to gauge yourself. Given that you’ll be working part time, I’d say 2 core and 1 GE.
3.) MAT 21A is a repeat of Calculus AB (if you took that in high school) but with a but of proofs (amount lectured and tested depends on professor). Usually ECS majors take it with ECS 30 first quarter. Chem 2A is the easiest of the series in my opinion, a few of my ECS friends took it Winter quarter to avoid overloading and competing with the majority of the pre-meds. Out of all the classes you listed PHY 9 is probably the most challenging. An exception to all of my claims mentioned below.
3.) Professors REALLY matter (can be a difference between a C and an A in rare cases). And the most “high quality” prof on rate my prof doesn’t mean it’s the prof with the easy A (if that’s your thing)
4.) I recommend ECS 30, MAT 21A and GE (suggestions: PHI 31, CLA 10, CLA 30, CRD 1, LIN 1).</p>
<p>They’re simply suggestions and experiences. Don’t take them as words that’ll guarantee success (success is on you). Look into more opinions as well. Best of luck!!</p>
<p>Thank you! This helps a lot! </p>