- #1
playoff
- 80
- 1
Hello PF! After months of eye shopping, I couldn't help but join this awesome community myself. I am a high school senior entering college soon, who is very excited to take college-level physics! I've done some research of what classes I should take, and came upon a conflict of scheduling.
Basically, the problem is this: if I am to take Calculus w/ Analytic Geometry III, which is what a physics major is expected to take, I'd have to take it from a professor who's reputation is very meager. But in exchange, the class will focus more on theories and proofs, which is what I need as a physics major. Also the required recitation classes will help me better understand the topics covered (although the reason why I came to this conflict was because of the requisite to attend the recitation classes).
On the other hand, I could take Calculus for Engineers III. If I am to take this alternative route, I will be able to learn from a professor who is much more well-reputed than the aforementioned. However, the price to pay would be the lack of theory and proof-based education and recitation classes. And analytic geometry, if I'll ever need that.
I am well aware that what you get from a class is what you put into it; that who teaches doesn't and shouldn't matter (and that ratings from ratemyprofessor.com shouldn't dictate the quality of an instructor). However, I also have been informed many times that who teaches you is very important in college. And although the first statement is true, I feel as if my academic accomplishment relied much upon the instructors during the past years.
And I also feel as if no one else are more qualified than the many experts I've seen here, the Physics Forum. I'll be honored, and will greatly appreciate any advice I can get.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Basically, the problem is this: if I am to take Calculus w/ Analytic Geometry III, which is what a physics major is expected to take, I'd have to take it from a professor who's reputation is very meager. But in exchange, the class will focus more on theories and proofs, which is what I need as a physics major. Also the required recitation classes will help me better understand the topics covered (although the reason why I came to this conflict was because of the requisite to attend the recitation classes).
On the other hand, I could take Calculus for Engineers III. If I am to take this alternative route, I will be able to learn from a professor who is much more well-reputed than the aforementioned. However, the price to pay would be the lack of theory and proof-based education and recitation classes. And analytic geometry, if I'll ever need that.
I am well aware that what you get from a class is what you put into it; that who teaches doesn't and shouldn't matter (and that ratings from ratemyprofessor.com shouldn't dictate the quality of an instructor). However, I also have been informed many times that who teaches you is very important in college. And although the first statement is true, I feel as if my academic accomplishment relied much upon the instructors during the past years.
And I also feel as if no one else are more qualified than the many experts I've seen here, the Physics Forum. I'll be honored, and will greatly appreciate any advice I can get.
Thank you for your time and consideration!