College Classes 101
So I am back at school, and the first few days were really hard. Not to mention I was just starting back at work. It was a busy week or so.
So remember when I had to go through a whole rigamarole in order to get into the math that I wanted? Well, the math is going well. I understand most of it, I am keeing up, and doing my homework, and I think I will do just fine in the class in general. (Now ask me again after I get the first test back in a couple of weeks...)
Anywho, they did not ask me anything about my science background, just sort of stuck me in Chemistry 085, which is the equivalent of grade 11 chem, only slightly harder and more intense. I did take Science 10, way back when I was in grade 10. Ask me how long ago that was! So after a week (almost) in the course, I decided, after much thought and difficulty, I decided to drop down a level. I am almost disappointed in myself, because I don't really want to take a summer course next year, or spend the extra $800. At the same time, I am very proud of myself for recognizing that I was in over my head, and setting myself up for failure.
I think I could have done it, with a lot of time and effort, which I don't mind putting in, but I am also taking math, which is not my strong suit. Add to that a nearly full time job (36 hours a week) and it does not leave much time for extra study and work in a class that I am not sure I will pass. If I don't pass it the first time, what are the chances I will pass it a second time, if I don't have the fundamentals behind all the concepts? Probably not too good. Mind you everything is always easier the second time round.
It was a really hard decision, and I am glad I made it, because I am not stressing so much anymore. My work was kind of annoyed, because they had to totally switch my schedule around, but as I told them, and I will stick to it, my school work comes first. There are other jobs out there. Maybe not ones that pay as well, or that I already know, but for the sake of doing well, I can sacrifice a few things.
So the lesson of College Classes 101: if you think you are in over your head, you might be. There is no shame in starting over in the shallow end of the pool. Better feet on ground than lungs in water.
Right?
So remember when I had to go through a whole rigamarole in order to get into the math that I wanted? Well, the math is going well. I understand most of it, I am keeing up, and doing my homework, and I think I will do just fine in the class in general. (Now ask me again after I get the first test back in a couple of weeks...)
Anywho, they did not ask me anything about my science background, just sort of stuck me in Chemistry 085, which is the equivalent of grade 11 chem, only slightly harder and more intense. I did take Science 10, way back when I was in grade 10. Ask me how long ago that was! So after a week (almost) in the course, I decided, after much thought and difficulty, I decided to drop down a level. I am almost disappointed in myself, because I don't really want to take a summer course next year, or spend the extra $800. At the same time, I am very proud of myself for recognizing that I was in over my head, and setting myself up for failure.
I think I could have done it, with a lot of time and effort, which I don't mind putting in, but I am also taking math, which is not my strong suit. Add to that a nearly full time job (36 hours a week) and it does not leave much time for extra study and work in a class that I am not sure I will pass. If I don't pass it the first time, what are the chances I will pass it a second time, if I don't have the fundamentals behind all the concepts? Probably not too good. Mind you everything is always easier the second time round.
It was a really hard decision, and I am glad I made it, because I am not stressing so much anymore. My work was kind of annoyed, because they had to totally switch my schedule around, but as I told them, and I will stick to it, my school work comes first. There are other jobs out there. Maybe not ones that pay as well, or that I already know, but for the sake of doing well, I can sacrifice a few things.
So the lesson of College Classes 101: if you think you are in over your head, you might be. There is no shame in starting over in the shallow end of the pool. Better feet on ground than lungs in water.
Right?
posted by Laura @ 8:32 PM
3 Comments:
At September 14, 2006 9:08 AM,
Anonymous said…
You've got to have a nice solid foundation to build on. Gosh, I sound cheesy, but I've always been a proponent of re-taking a slightly easier class before moving on (I've done that with dance and swimming and such.)
Anyway, glad to hear things are going well!
At September 16, 2006 11:15 AM,
Anthony said…
I wish I had your brain.
I tend to push myself - even more so when I know I'm over my head in things.
For example, in high school, I took Calculus. Don't ask why. It was VERY hard but I took it anyways to prove I could do it.. I ended up scoring a mark of 50 percent. No good, yes, but I proved my point.. meanwhile screwing around with my average before applying to university.
Heh.
I hope school continues to be well with you. I'm returning for the next semester and don't intend on leaving until I'm in my 30's.
Which reminds me, it's my birthday in a couple weeks.
Guess who's going to be 25th?
Me.
:)
At September 17, 2006 1:23 AM,
Laura said…
:) thanks guys! I'm so glad I have some encouragement!
Some people think I should have just pushed on, but I would not have done well. :) I'm glad I was able to recognize it!
Post a Comment
<< Home