The Skinny on BU College of General Studies?

<p>I know a lot of people dislike CGS because they say it’s just like high school–more of the same, and they feel like they can’t take classes for their major, which puts them at a disadvantage.</p>

<p>That is also one of the reasons why. Also it limits your ability to pursue a track that is uncommon for example what I am trying to do. I am forced to take 3 summer courses just because I want to do business and premed. If I was in SMG this would not be necessary and your cgs adviser will discourage you as well. Don’t get me wrong, I love BU but I do not love CGS. Some people do but a majority that I have spoken to do not. I am saying this because I am a current CGS student who really wants to excel. I am willing to answer any questions that you may have about being a freshman in CGS.</p>

<p>At open house before she started, the Dean said that the toughest program to do after CGS was Sargent, but there was no problem doing the others. I can see how a double major such as business and premed would be hard too - just not enough slots. Do you have any advice for those who are in the program already that you have “learned the hard way?” Our DD is a freshman, and is loving both BU and CGS, but she has not yet declared a major. She had 12 AP units going in, and will be doing the London program this summer, but I think she is prepared that she might have to do some coursework in her major at CA schools in the summer if necessary.</p>

<p>Well CGS is not a bad place it just limits you on the possibilities that BU has to offer. Yes they offer a core curriculum that ensures that you complete your undergrad requirements but CAS has the same program that at least lets you choose the course instead of being thrown into a course that you have no interest in taking.
I spoke with those who hated CGS as a freshman but ended up loving it after sophomore year started so i’m hoping for the same feelings but at this point no.</p>

<p>I am trying to make the best out of it and speaking to my advisor she basically states that everything except pursuing a single major is practically impossible if a lot of courses do not overlap.</p>

<p>Attending the summer london program is a great choice! I am taking humanities over the summer and opted out of natural science so I will technically only be taking one CGS course during my sophomore year so I can focus on my major! I as well entered with 12 ap credits.</p>

<p>to be fair I think a pre-med in SMG would have to take summer classes as well. it would be extremely difficult to get all of those requirements done in both schools.</p>

<p>Coollkid, it sounds like you are doing a great job making CGS fit for your situation. I honestly have to say that I am completely blown away by the comments my daughter has made about this program, but I am nervous about her getting all her coursework in in four years. Examples of things she has said
“My CGS professor said that she is going to look through our entire semester portfolio and put a note in our box on what she thinks our focus should be for next semester to take our analysis skills to the next level.”
" when I asked my CGS professor about the paper I was supposed to write, he suggested I turn in my rough draft. He wrote such extensive notes on it - and then wrote more on the final. I really learned a lot."</p>

<p>I agree it would be impossible with a double major!!</p>

<p>Can i get into bu? How hard is it to get into general studies, i have a low act:/</p>

<p>I was just accepted to the CGS program. Could someone please let me know if it’s possible for me to transfer OUT of the University (BU) to another University? For example, after one semester of studying the CGS program, is it possible for me to transfer out of BU to, lets say a liberal arts program at Northeastern?</p>

<p>Yes - you can transfer to a different University, however if you attend CGS you must complete the full two year program before continuing to another college at BU</p>

<p>What is the typical student like at CGS? I graduated from BU in 1980 and at the time CGS (then called College of Basic Studies) had the reputation as being for the BU athletes. BU has become much more competitive than when I was there. Therefore, I’m thinking that this college’s reputation has changed. Is this the case?</p>

<p>Let me share a perspective from someone who attended your school when it was known as the College of Basics Studies. The core curriculum that is offered in this two year program will prepare you to be successful in any of the other schools at BU. I attended CBS in 1979 and then transferred, upon my completion of the program, to Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. The teachers I had were extraordinary scholars who loved teaching. Do not be misguided into believing that you are attending a school that lacks academic rigor. If you apply on your own or if the program is recommended to you, make the most of your experience. It was the best two years of my collegiate experience. I met extraordinary classmates who have distinguished themselves in their respective professions and careers. Only you can disappoint yourself. It is your attitude that will determine your altitude in life. Go for it.</p>