<p>I understand that math is pretty much not necessary to become a doctor nor is it needed for the MCAT, and I don't really like Calculus. I am thinking of majoring in Biology and it requires another semester of Calculus that I don't already have. However, I would rather take humanity/history classes with my science classes instead of having to take a math class. I would even rather take statistics. Do you think it would be wise to perhaps take the other calculus class the summer before sophomore year, or junior year, or just wait to take it during senior year when the MCAT is done or something?</p>
<p>A basic understanding of statistics is absolutely necessary for becoming a doctor. Calc is a tool of biology (there is a reason they want you to take it). When analyzing data (understanding patients,reading papers) you need some math-- even if you do hate it.
Talk to a guidance counselor or the head of the department about it. Know this: you’re going to have to take a math course.</p>
<p>Chance me <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1060060-colleges-im-interested-can-i-get-into-2.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1060060-colleges-im-interested-can-i-get-into-2.html</a></p>
<p>I wouldn’t mind taking statistics at all, and I’m already taking AP calculus. I just don’t want to take another one, and I don’t think it’s a good idea to take Biology, Chemistry, AND Calculus my freshman year. (Biology and Chemistry are required to be taken together freshman year for a Bio major.)</p>
<p>Don’t put Calc 2 off for too long. The longer you wait between AP Calc and Calc 2, the harder the transition will get - especially if Calc 1 never “clicked” with you to begin with.</p>
<p>I actually find calc really easy right now. I just don’t want to spend another semester in it, but I am worried about the transition.</p>
<p>I took calc 1, bio and chemistry all in my first semester at my university. It was tough to take them all at the same time, but I’m glad I did, students seem to work better their first few semesters and start to slack a bit as they go longer in the system, so I’d say take it now before you get burnt out.</p>
<p>If you can self-study then take the AB and BC advanced placement tests. Scores of 4+ will end your involuntary math obligations for most medical schools.</p>
<p>You just need to have your pre-req’s done by the time you matriculate to med school. That being said, if you are struggling with AP Calc, I would say to redo Calc I in college instead of Calc II. You need to protect your GPA, as well as thoroughly learn the material. Calc I is NOT the same as AP Calc. I suggest you go to the pre-med forum, there have been many many threads about this.</p>