Q: Hi, are science classes that have labs actually a lot more work than others? Like would taking Chem 1A, Bio 1B and Physics 8A at the same time be considered a lot harder than Chem 1A, Bio 1B, and Math 1B? I realize that some people do take 3 science class
The Answer
Yeah, three sciences classes is considered quite a lot. Labs can take anywhere between 2-3 hours each. In addition, getting into the right labs can be difficult with scheduling. Chem 1A is a weeder class, so it's quite difficult. If you took AP Chem, it's a little more manageable, but challenging nevertheless. Bio 1B is no walk in the park, and Physics 8A is similar to your AP Physics class in high school, not impossible, but work nevertheless.
Math 1B is one of the hardest classes at Cal in my opinion, with the most difficult midterms of the bunch. AP Calc doesn't really prepared you for it
Looking at your choices, I'd do Chem 1A, Math 1B, and two non-technical classes. I would not stack up three science/tech classes first semester is not recommendable and is something you should take on 2nd semester rather than 1st semester.
Good luck!
