<p>Keep in mind that workload varies because what a student wants out of a class varies. </p>
<p>If you approach a core course as “something to get out of the way” and are willing to settle for an average grade, (either/or, perhaps), then you can probably get by without too much work. But, if you really want to sink your teeth into a course, whether because of the challenge/learning opportunity or because you want a better grade, then you will probably put a lot more effort and time into that course.</p>
<p>Keep in mind too that those that really excel in any course no doubt do so because the really engage the material, such that the “work” is not totally dreary work. Some kids indeed don’t think spending a Saturday night working on a course paper is a tremendous sacrifice - they just have a different priority scheme.</p>
<p>Understand that these differences are neither good nor bad. The “UofC alumni world” has plenty of room for everyone - from slacker to superstar. And much of the time no one cares which group you are in!</p>