I’m a senior graduating after my finals next week. I’m enrolled at a public university and am starting 4 days after I’m done with high school. That means the university will probably not get my transcripts until the first week or so of February. I’m extremely nervous about this F on my transcript. Since I’ve already taken 3 years of math at my high school, I technically don’t have to pass pre-calc in order to graduate. I’m still nervous about the implications of this F. I don’t know how, but based on the university’s placement test, I tested into calculus, but I don’t think I’m ready for it. I really don’t know what to do, or what the university can/will do when my transcripts arrive. I did enroll in the calculus class because it’s required of my major and I want to get it over with, but I don’t think it’s the right level for me. I thought I’d try it out, and maybe with extensive studying and tutoring I could do well. But if I can’t even pass pre-calculus, I’m not sure that I’m ready for college-level calculus. Any advice would be helpful.
If you are looking to enter medical school or pursue a medical profession, Calculus is a must. What is causing you to fail? Did you just now grasp the earlier algebraic topics? If you do not have time to improve, I would suggest re-taking it at a local community college.
Pre-calculus and calculus are different, surprisingly. However, the trig involved in it is extremely important, so work on that as well. If you tested into calculus, go for it. Don’t give up because of one class. Most pre-calc topics don’t cover calculus anyway. But my advice is this: if you can’t handle pre-calc and if you take it again and do poorly, don’t consider college calculus. But I know you can do it 