How Important Is Physics?

<p>Here's my dilemma: freshman year I was required to take Integrated Science 2, the second in the series of Integrated Science Courses (4 diff. sciences taken each year over a period of 4 years). This is because it was the school's first year of operation, hence everything was extremely confused and disorganized; I was placed into all sophomore classes because they had too many freshman and not enough sophomores. Because of this I have only taken Chem Hons. (10th) and Bio AP (11th). </p>

<p>I'm taking physics at the community college this year because they do not offer calc-based physics at my school. I plan on applying to Stanford early and am sure they would like their applicants to have already taken physics, however I honestly can admit that I have signed up for too many classes (Comm. college: French2B, Differential Equations, Multivariable Calc., Physics 4A. High School: AP Gov., AP Eng Lit) and Mon-Thurs I don't get home from classes until 6-8 P.M., never mind the hours of HW required for each class. Plus I am involved in some time-consuming activities (founder of debate, GSA, volunteering every week, kyudo, fencing, yearbook (for which I expect to do a lot of work this year-> school's first year with paper yearbook), newsletter, and also setting up the tutoring system at our school, not to mention I'm hoping to get my falconry license this year, something I've been looking forward to since I was 12). The physics I am taking is part of the sequence required for engineeers and is actually very interesting and I enjoy it, but I'm not sure if I can continue with this schedule. </p>

<p>So I guess my main question is: If I drop physics and take it next semester instead, would Stanford look badly upon that? Please reply as any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read this and hopefully offer your advice.</p>

<p>Sincerely,
Christina</p>

<p>You can rest assured that your admit status at Stanford will not hinge on whether or not you have taken physics. However, dropping physics will leave you with just 5 classes. Even though all 5 look rigorous, Stanford could look askance at just 5. Your schedule is crazy. I would recommend dropping 2 or 3 of your ec's rather than a class. You list 8 ec's you are pursuing simultaneously. With all due respect, it is not possible to do 8 simultaneous ec's justice. Stanford's adcoms know this so you risk being seen by them as more of a resume' building dilettante than someone of dedicated involvement. Concentrate on your 6 classes, testing and the 3 or so ec's that you are passionately involved in. Good luck!</p>