<p>I spoke with my son, who confirms that Math 230 is notoriously difficult and a huge workload – not a reason not to take it, but you do have to consider it in the context of the rest of your workload and your primary interests. </p>
<p>On a substantive level, Math 230 goes right into very proof-based linear algebra. Unless your HS background includes MV Calc that is extremely proof-based, you won’t have the right preparation for 230. Many students wind up dropping it. He describes Math 230 as math for math’s sake. If you’re not a pure math major and need MV Calc for another major, you may not get what you need by taking 230.</p>
<p>He also strongly suggests that you not worry about this now. Next fall you can take the placement test, network with students and professors, shop both 120 and 230, and decide then.</p>