Duke graduate ('08) taking questions

<p>Math 32 (Calc 2) has an even worse curve than 103 (Multivar/Vector Calc) (C range vs. B range, respectively). Really, most of the intro and core courses for premeds are curved to a C or low B. My philosophy was to take courses that would best prepare me for med school and not look too much into the grading, since lower grades in advanced courses look better than similar grades in intro courses. That being said, I would recommend to others to start out with Chem 23 (Adv Gen Chem) rather than Chem 151 (Orgo) unless you are really strong in Chem. Bio 118 (Genetics/Molecular Bio) or Bio 103 (Microbio) are good first courses for students with AP credits. Taking Bio 103 which has a lab will also knock out one of the premed requirements, but it also tends to fill up quickly and freshmen may have a hard time registering for it. Another option is to start the physics track (Phy 53 and 54). Keep in mind that there are a ton of general ed reqs that also need to be fulfilled. So take courses broadly in your first year and don’t focus exclusively on premed coursework. Otherwise, you’ll end up done with those but behind on general graduation requirements.</p>