<p>Chem 1 & 2 are good for pre-meds. Chem 11 and 12, I think, are designed for people with some AP experience, esp. the chemical engineers. A lot of what you go over in 11 and 12 (from what I've heard) gives a good background for physical chemistry - but you won't really get into that in chem 1 & 2.</p>
<p>Yes, the IR major is worth it. Much better than poli sci + econ - because IR is so darn well-respected at Tufts. IR will also force you to focus in on a country or area (so you do that language and study in it some upper-level courses), which is what you do not get in poli sci & econ.</p>