Should I drop this (very difficult) non-major class?

Student Lounge College Life
1

I’m currently a sophomore at a top university who has decided to change their major to econ from premed/biology. I am taking general chemistry this semester, and it is a very difficult class that is taking time away from my other courses. Even after spending more time studying than for all my other classes combined, I got a 55% on my first test. Should I drop this class since it’s not even related to my major or a distribution requirement?

The only downside is that I will dip below full-time status for the rest of the semester. Will this hurt me in grad school and law school admissions?

2

Going below full time status could cause loss of financial aid and scholarships. It may also result in needing to catch up credits to graduate on time (although failing would also do that).

Is there an option for passed / not-passed grading?

However, law school GPA calculations will consider not-passed as fail.

3

If you have difficulty in basic chemistry course, you should drop premed immediately. Many people who did very well at biology/chemistry got killed by organic chemistry. Chemistry/Biology is like the first round in a competition.

4

Yeah @nrtlax33 thats why I dropped chemistry. Biology was super easy, but I really don’t like chemistry

5

@ucbalumnus the deadline for pass/fail has already passed. I won’t lose my fin aid this semester if I take a full courseload next semester (which I obviously will)

6

You can also get kicked out of university housing if you drop below full time.

Chem is notoriously difficulty (esp organic) and the course may have a curve. Best to check with your prof before dropping.

7

Talk to your adviser before you do anything.

  1. Going below full time affects your financial aid…as in you don’t get it.
  2. Going below fuil time results in you not being able to live in a dorm.
  3. If you can’t do chemistry…then premed may not be right for you. Get a tutor ASAP. Look at this for other ideas to do better:
    http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-life/1920853-college-is-a-step-up-from-hs-16-tips-on-doing-well-in-college.html