16 answers
1
Question
Asked
2078 views
How do you start college without overwhelming yourself in classes you know aren’t your strong suit?
I’m an incoming college freshman who struggles in science specifically. Math is an okay subject I can learn but science I’ve always had trouble with in high school.
16 answers
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi-
To not overwhelm yourself, I recommend taking 3-4 courses, and prioritize them by difficulty:
1) hard, will take 70% of your time to study and work on assignments
2) medium, will take 20% of your time for class, and assignments
3) easy, will take about 9% of your time- a few assignments
4) really easy, will take 1% of your time- you just have to listen and show up for class!
To not overwhelm yourself, I recommend taking 3-4 courses, and prioritize them by difficulty:
1) hard, will take 70% of your time to study and work on assignments
2) medium, will take 20% of your time for class, and assignments
3) easy, will take about 9% of your time- a few assignments
4) really easy, will take 1% of your time- you just have to listen and show up for class!
Updated
John’s Answer
I think a lot of people have given great advice on this topic. But something that I haven't seen a lot of others mention is that it is normal to feel a bit overwhelmed as Freshman in College. For most people, they are on their own for the first time, navigating a completely new type of learning and taking classes that are more difficult than High School. So, first of all, don't put too much pressure on yourself to not feel overwhelmed. This is a good thing as you are experiencing something new and exciting. You will get the hang of it.
My greatest piece of advice on how to deal with being overwhelmed is OFFICE HOURS! Most professors offer these for their students to either meet with the professor 1 on 1 or in small groups. First of all, this is a great opportunity for you to ask clarifying questions in a safe environment and get help with difficult topics or challenging tasks. These office hours are designed to help you when you are struggling. Regardless if you are getting As or barely passing the class, office hours are for everyone looking to learn more and improve their knowledge on the topic. Secondly, and something a lot of people don't think about, office hours are a FANTASTIC way to meet your professors and show that you truly care about their class. Trust me when I say this, this can go a looong way when it comes to grades and scoring. When the professor knows who you are and you have shown them that you care about the class and are willing to put in the extra work to become successful, they will be more willing to give you a better grade. NOT because you are a "teacher's pet" or "kiss-as*," but because you are showing them that you want to put in the effort, even when things are hard. Professors LOVE this and will often place you in higher regard because of it, and they SHOULD!
My greatest piece of advice on how to deal with being overwhelmed is OFFICE HOURS! Most professors offer these for their students to either meet with the professor 1 on 1 or in small groups. First of all, this is a great opportunity for you to ask clarifying questions in a safe environment and get help with difficult topics or challenging tasks. These office hours are designed to help you when you are struggling. Regardless if you are getting As or barely passing the class, office hours are for everyone looking to learn more and improve their knowledge on the topic. Secondly, and something a lot of people don't think about, office hours are a FANTASTIC way to meet your professors and show that you truly care about their class. Trust me when I say this, this can go a looong way when it comes to grades and scoring. When the professor knows who you are and you have shown them that you care about the class and are willing to put in the extra work to become successful, they will be more willing to give you a better grade. NOT because you are a "teacher's pet" or "kiss-as*," but because you are showing them that you want to put in the effort, even when things are hard. Professors LOVE this and will often place you in higher regard because of it, and they SHOULD!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Briyanna !
There just may be a way to manage this as I think most students, when having to take their General Ed courses see that more likely than not, there is a science course that is required. It's going to depend greatly on the college you attend and which science courses they deem qualified for the science requirements. Since you didn't mention which college you will be attending and we don't know the general education requirements, I can't name specific courses to take that may lighten the experience for you.
I went to a CSU many, many years ago and things most definitely changed, so I don't know if you're planning to go to a CSU (a California State University) or not but their system for sciences are doable. I liked Science in high school but took only Physical Science and Biology with a Lab. Once I got to college, the General Ed requirements for Science were broad and you got to choose which actual courses to take. Since I was a Theatre Major and not fond of dissecting animals, I took Biology In Society which had a Lab and field Work. It was like Environmental Science and ended up being the right course for me. For another science requirement, I took Nutrition (no Lab) because I was always interested in that subject. So you just may see that whatever college you attend may give you lead way to choose a science that you can manage. The CSU system seems to have become more adaptable with their general ed requirements over the decades since I attended.
UC (University of California) colleges will have a different Science general ed requirement and so will private colleges. So your first step in figuring this out will be to choose a college and read their General Education requirements for Science. Like I've mentioned, I think that students have more of a selection now a days than when I went to college, so read the requirements on the college's website.
If you want some very basic generalized information, the CSU college system, if you attend one, only requires Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Mathematics. If you'll go to a CSU, call them to ask how many units (of credit) you'll need to take and if the Math can be taken instead of the Science.
For the University of California System colleges, wow, you don't even have to include a Science for your General Ed. They require general ed courses in Writing, Social and Behavioral Science (but 3 courses), Quantitative, Symbolic, and Computational Reasoning (3 courses), Language Other Than English (1 course), Multicultural Studies (one course), and one course in International/Global Issues which can satisfy another category of requirement.
Cal-GETC, a new general education pattern, will be implemented at all California community colleges starting in the Fall of 2025. See if your academic counselor knows about this and can explain it to you before you start college if you'll be attending a Community College.
So it's not worth worrying about right now until you find out the Science requirement at the exact school you'll be going to. It's perfectly fine to not catch on quickly to every single subject or hold an interest in every subject. So before you think about this more, go to the college website to see exactly what sciences fulfill their requirement.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
There just may be a way to manage this as I think most students, when having to take their General Ed courses see that more likely than not, there is a science course that is required. It's going to depend greatly on the college you attend and which science courses they deem qualified for the science requirements. Since you didn't mention which college you will be attending and we don't know the general education requirements, I can't name specific courses to take that may lighten the experience for you.
I went to a CSU many, many years ago and things most definitely changed, so I don't know if you're planning to go to a CSU (a California State University) or not but their system for sciences are doable. I liked Science in high school but took only Physical Science and Biology with a Lab. Once I got to college, the General Ed requirements for Science were broad and you got to choose which actual courses to take. Since I was a Theatre Major and not fond of dissecting animals, I took Biology In Society which had a Lab and field Work. It was like Environmental Science and ended up being the right course for me. For another science requirement, I took Nutrition (no Lab) because I was always interested in that subject. So you just may see that whatever college you attend may give you lead way to choose a science that you can manage. The CSU system seems to have become more adaptable with their general ed requirements over the decades since I attended.
UC (University of California) colleges will have a different Science general ed requirement and so will private colleges. So your first step in figuring this out will be to choose a college and read their General Education requirements for Science. Like I've mentioned, I think that students have more of a selection now a days than when I went to college, so read the requirements on the college's website.
If you want some very basic generalized information, the CSU college system, if you attend one, only requires Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Mathematics. If you'll go to a CSU, call them to ask how many units (of credit) you'll need to take and if the Math can be taken instead of the Science.
For the University of California System colleges, wow, you don't even have to include a Science for your General Ed. They require general ed courses in Writing, Social and Behavioral Science (but 3 courses), Quantitative, Symbolic, and Computational Reasoning (3 courses), Language Other Than English (1 course), Multicultural Studies (one course), and one course in International/Global Issues which can satisfy another category of requirement.
Cal-GETC, a new general education pattern, will be implemented at all California community colleges starting in the Fall of 2025. See if your academic counselor knows about this and can explain it to you before you start college if you'll be attending a Community College.
So it's not worth worrying about right now until you find out the Science requirement at the exact school you'll be going to. It's perfectly fine to not catch on quickly to every single subject or hold an interest in every subject. So before you think about this more, go to the college website to see exactly what sciences fulfill their requirement.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Briyanna, it's wonderful that you've already recognized this as something you want to work on! Just thinking this way shows you're heading in the right direction. When I was in college, using all the school's resources really helped me. Going to office hours, joining TA sessions, and forming study groups with classmates can really help you catch up in areas where you feel behind. Keep it up!
Updated
Cornelia’s Answer
I totally get it. Chemistry wasn't my strong suit either! It's one of those subjects that just didn't click with me. But, I didn't let that hold me back. In high school, I took the lowest level chemistry class available, and I did my best to get a good grade. When I got to college, I was undecided at first, so I took some general prerequisite courses like English, math, and Spanish. For science, I took a combo class that covered a bit of chemistry, but at a level that wasn't too overwhelming. I actually did really well in that class and gained a basic understanding of chemistry, which was all I needed.
As I continued through college, I discovered my passion for computers and eventually declared computer science as my major. That was 30 years ago, and I still love what I do today! My point is, you don't have to be perfect at everything, and it's okay if some subjects don't come naturally to you. What's important is finding what you're passionate about and pursuing it. So, don't stress too much about chemistry if it's not your thing. Focus on finding your strengths and interests, and you'll be just fine. Good luck on your college journey, and I hope you find what you love!
As I continued through college, I discovered my passion for computers and eventually declared computer science as my major. That was 30 years ago, and I still love what I do today! My point is, you don't have to be perfect at everything, and it's okay if some subjects don't come naturally to you. What's important is finding what you're passionate about and pursuing it. So, don't stress too much about chemistry if it's not your thing. Focus on finding your strengths and interests, and you'll be just fine. Good luck on your college journey, and I hope you find what you love!
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Briyanna,
First and foremost, do not take difficult classes during a time of day when your brain is not fully engaged! Try to schedule this class with no other commitments either before or after it. This way, you have time to study before a test, and time to review your notes after class. Do not take other reading intensive classes during the semester you take science. For example, freshman literature.
IF science is not your major, review the professors on line - ratemyprofessor, or something like that. Look for the easy ones. If it IS your major, it's important that you learn and retain the material, so in that case, easy may not be best.
Beyond that, stay current in all reading and work, and use whatever study resources the college provides. Take notes. Don't depend on the professor's uploaded lecture material. Taking notes helps to reinforce the material.
Sometimes you need to find your own YouTube videos to simplify the complex. I'm still looking for an animated explanation of how autoimmune illnesses attack the body. But, I did find some good videos to explain complex court cases when I was studying law.
Just tell yourself you've got this, then do whatever you can to ensure your success. Also, be sure to eat, sleep, hydrate, and exercise as best as possible. They all play a part in the learning process.
Kim
First and foremost, do not take difficult classes during a time of day when your brain is not fully engaged! Try to schedule this class with no other commitments either before or after it. This way, you have time to study before a test, and time to review your notes after class. Do not take other reading intensive classes during the semester you take science. For example, freshman literature.
IF science is not your major, review the professors on line - ratemyprofessor, or something like that. Look for the easy ones. If it IS your major, it's important that you learn and retain the material, so in that case, easy may not be best.
Beyond that, stay current in all reading and work, and use whatever study resources the college provides. Take notes. Don't depend on the professor's uploaded lecture material. Taking notes helps to reinforce the material.
Sometimes you need to find your own YouTube videos to simplify the complex. I'm still looking for an animated explanation of how autoimmune illnesses attack the body. But, I did find some good videos to explain complex court cases when I was studying law.
Just tell yourself you've got this, then do whatever you can to ensure your success. Also, be sure to eat, sleep, hydrate, and exercise as best as possible. They all play a part in the learning process.
Kim
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
Briyanna, I am glad you are asking this and understanding your limitations. Knowing where your weaknesses lie is the first step towards addressing them. You will often find yourself in less than ideal situations, and with respect to your classes, this will generally arise from poor scheduling luck. When starting, you do not have much, if any control over your schedule, but you can control how you respond to it.
My biggest tips to you are to allocate additional resources as necessary to your weaker classes and to leverage the resources the university provides for your success. With respect to the former, you may need to dedicate additional time to reviewing the material or find where you can focus more clearly on the work, beyond just the notes you take in class. With respect to the latter, I mainly mean attending your professor's office hours and signing up for tutoring services. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help, and those are the main places where it is encouraged and expected. You may also collaborate with your peers as well, but these resources will be the most consistent and critical to your success.
Once you familiarize yourself and speak with an academic advisor, you can begin planning your graduation plan and next term classes. With the scheduling tool, you can determine what schedules fit best for you. You may not be a morning person and not want to have classes in the morning, for example, and you can plan around that to ensure your weakest classes are at the best times. Be sure to have backup schedules as well, in case you do not get the one you want.
Ultimately, I think the best way to prevent yourself from being overwhelmed is to seek help. This includes the university resources, your peers, and recognition from yourself that you need it. From there, you can work with your help as necessary to determine what your next steps should be, and working with others can help you begin and break down an overwhelming, insurmountable challenge into manageable parts. Good luck with your first year of college!
My biggest tips to you are to allocate additional resources as necessary to your weaker classes and to leverage the resources the university provides for your success. With respect to the former, you may need to dedicate additional time to reviewing the material or find where you can focus more clearly on the work, beyond just the notes you take in class. With respect to the latter, I mainly mean attending your professor's office hours and signing up for tutoring services. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help, and those are the main places where it is encouraged and expected. You may also collaborate with your peers as well, but these resources will be the most consistent and critical to your success.
Once you familiarize yourself and speak with an academic advisor, you can begin planning your graduation plan and next term classes. With the scheduling tool, you can determine what schedules fit best for you. You may not be a morning person and not want to have classes in the morning, for example, and you can plan around that to ensure your weakest classes are at the best times. Be sure to have backup schedules as well, in case you do not get the one you want.
Ultimately, I think the best way to prevent yourself from being overwhelmed is to seek help. This includes the university resources, your peers, and recognition from yourself that you need it. From there, you can work with your help as necessary to determine what your next steps should be, and working with others can help you begin and break down an overwhelming, insurmountable challenge into manageable parts. Good luck with your first year of college!
Updated
Connor’s Answer
The good news is that you have control over how you structure your first semester to set yourself up for success. One effective approach is to balance your course load by mixing required classes with subjects you feel more confident in. For example, if you need to take a science course, consider pairing it with classes in areas where you excel or have a strong interest. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed by too many challenging courses at once.
My biggest advice would be to interact with students and advisors as soon as possible to help you determine what will be a class that will most set you up for success. Many people enter college with the same mindset, but there are certainly classes more geared for people having the same issues you are fearing. For example, my university required pre req credits in many fields. I feared science, but I quickly learned there were classes designed for people to get an introductory understanding of science topics, without having any background. This class set me up for success as I both earned a grade easily without having much interest or background, but also gaining a better understanding of the field. I would not have learned about this course had I not spoke to other students. If I had blindly taken another course, I may have been in a difficult spot that had been designed for people more accustomed to the field.
It’s also helpful to take advantage of resources your college offers, such as tutoring centers, study groups, and office hours with professors. These can make a big difference if you start to struggle. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help early—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Additionally, consider starting with introductory-level science classes, which are designed to help students build foundational knowledge, even if they haven’t felt confident in the subject before. Remember, college is a fresh start, and you may find that with the right support and mindset, you can do better in science than you did in high school. Most importantly, be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust to the new environment and expectations.
My biggest advice would be to interact with students and advisors as soon as possible to help you determine what will be a class that will most set you up for success. Many people enter college with the same mindset, but there are certainly classes more geared for people having the same issues you are fearing. For example, my university required pre req credits in many fields. I feared science, but I quickly learned there were classes designed for people to get an introductory understanding of science topics, without having any background. This class set me up for success as I both earned a grade easily without having much interest or background, but also gaining a better understanding of the field. I would not have learned about this course had I not spoke to other students. If I had blindly taken another course, I may have been in a difficult spot that had been designed for people more accustomed to the field.
It’s also helpful to take advantage of resources your college offers, such as tutoring centers, study groups, and office hours with professors. These can make a big difference if you start to struggle. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help early—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Additionally, consider starting with introductory-level science classes, which are designed to help students build foundational knowledge, even if they haven’t felt confident in the subject before. Remember, college is a fresh start, and you may find that with the right support and mindset, you can do better in science than you did in high school. Most importantly, be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust to the new environment and expectations.
Updated
JOSEPH’s Answer
Hi Briyanna,
Try to go on ratemyprofessor.com and see if you can find the professor with the best ratings that teaches the course you want to take. If you can find them or you have no option but to take a poorly rated professor. All hope is not lost. I always advice not to rely on your professor regardless of them being suitable to teach the course. This is what separate average students from great students. There are many tools you can take advantage of, available online. Try to get your course work syllable as early as you can, and start planning. So when I was in college, I knew I had no coding experience prior to attending college, so after struggling my first year, I decided to learn more about my class material a few weeks to a month before I attend the class to give me an edge, and it worked. So my class lecture were more like reviews, or extra lessons when I struggled with the concepts. Try to record lecture on your ipad/phone, so you can review it later if your professor doesn't record their lectures.
Try to go on ratemyprofessor.com and see if you can find the professor with the best ratings that teaches the course you want to take. If you can find them or you have no option but to take a poorly rated professor. All hope is not lost. I always advice not to rely on your professor regardless of them being suitable to teach the course. This is what separate average students from great students. There are many tools you can take advantage of, available online. Try to get your course work syllable as early as you can, and start planning. So when I was in college, I knew I had no coding experience prior to attending college, so after struggling my first year, I decided to learn more about my class material a few weeks to a month before I attend the class to give me an edge, and it worked. So my class lecture were more like reviews, or extra lessons when I struggled with the concepts. Try to record lecture on your ipad/phone, so you can review it later if your professor doesn't record their lectures.
Updated
Karina’s Answer
Hi Briyanna. It's great that you know your limits and are looking for ways to succeed in college. There are plenty of resources to help with tough courses. You can use your professor's and TA's office hours or check out tutoring services offered by the college. Joining study groups with classmates can also help with your studies and is a great way to make new friends.
If you need to take a science class for a General Ed requirement, but it's not for a science-related major, consider choosing a class that's less intense, like nutrition instead of chemistry. Colleges offer many courses, and you can pick a lower-level one. When I was a freshman, I took a 100-level nutrition class that was interesting and not too heavy on science.
Good luck!
If you need to take a science class for a General Ed requirement, but it's not for a science-related major, consider choosing a class that's less intense, like nutrition instead of chemistry. Colleges offer many courses, and you can pick a lower-level one. When I was a freshman, I took a 100-level nutrition class that was interesting and not too heavy on science.
Good luck!
Updated
Abby’s Answer
Hello! This is such an exciting time starting college. I recommend talking to your college counselor or looking on online sites to better understand which science classes are most difficult and when you should take them- your most difficult classes for your degree should likely be your sophomore, junior, and senior years. There are online websites where students rate the classes at different colleges by difficulty and provide context on their experience that may help you build your schedule. I'd also suggest seeing which professors are rated the highest for a better experience in your classes- some classes are taught by several professors and the student experience can vary significantly depending on which professor the student takes. Your first semester will likely be overwhelming with so much change, but setting your schedule to help you adapt is a smart approach to take. Best of luck!
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Hi there! Starting new classes can feel a bit overwhelming, but don't worry. It's important to use the resources at your university. Keep in touch with your advisors to help manage your classes. Also, try to get to know your professors. Let them know who you are and ask them for advice on preparing for their classes and exams. You've got this!
Updated
Ann’s Answer
Hi Briyanna,
At the beginning of the semester, I went to sit in to as many classes that I was interested in as my schedule allowed. Especially the first class, you would get an idea of what the requirements are and what it takes. Then I could decide to ask the instructor if I could sign up for the class or I would take it next semester. I hope this helps.
Ann
At the beginning of the semester, I went to sit in to as many classes that I was interested in as my schedule allowed. Especially the first class, you would get an idea of what the requirements are and what it takes. Then I could decide to ask the instructor if I could sign up for the class or I would take it next semester. I hope this helps.
Ann
Updated
Brian’s Answer
In your first year, choose classes that boost your confidence. Share your experiences with others, and they will share theirs with you. You may find support from a professor or a friend who can help you with challenging courses.
Updated
Lynn’s Answer
Meet your Acedemic Advisor and strategically plan your schedule. Priority is identifying all general education requirements. Don't front load all your challenging courses. Instead, balance your schedule with a mix of classes that align with your strengths and those challenges courses. Consider taking easier, introductory courses (e.g., Science for non-Majors) first. Leverage campus resources like tutoring sessions, mentorship. This thoughtful pacing will prevent burnout and allow you to build confidence.
Updated
Tyler’s Answer
Your first year of college is an exciting adventure, even though it might feel a bit overwhelming at times. Moving out for the first time and facing new classes can seem challenging, but remember, this is a big step forward after high school, and feeling unsure is completely normal. One thing that really helped me was making friends in my classes. Having people to study with, ask questions, or just share the experience with can make everything feel more manageable and less stressful. Also, don't hesitate to attend office hours. Most professors are friendly and eager to help with any questions you have about homework or studying. Getting to know your professors can also be beneficial for future job recommendations or career advice. Enjoy your first year and have fun!
Delete Comment
Flag Comment