<p>I’m a physics major at a state school. I decided that it would be money efficient to go to a state school. However, now that I’m actually here (I’ve spent 2 semesters here), I’m not sure that I could stand another three years at a school like this. I’m completely unchallenged, even (Especially!) in my major, and I can’t stand Gen Ed. classes because they’re made just to pass people through. Is this something that most people experience at college, or is it a sign that I’m at the wrong school?</p>
<p>I am going to a small college and I am experiencing the same thing (as a math major). I got advice from several students and a professor that taking classes at a neighboring college with more rigorous academics might be better for me, which is fortunately quite easy because of a cross-registration program. I will find out next year how well that will work.</p>
<p>Have you talked to your major adviser or another faculty member in the physics department about this? They can probably tell you if higher-level classes will be more challenging or not. Also pay attention to which professors have a reputation for being very hard or demanding - those might be the classes you like. The department might also have (official or unofficial) honors or enriched courses. </p>
<p>Usually you should not feel unchallenged in your first year, at least not outside of gen ed requirements. Usually it’s the other way round - freshmen often feel overwhelmed. If nothing else helps you might consider transferring, but talk to advisers or faculty members first - preferably before you choose classes for next semester. Good luck!</p>
<p>That’s not typical, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at the wrong school. Maybe there are some upper-level courses you could take?</p>
<p>Otherwise perhaps you should look into transfering. I wouldn’t totally count out public schools though (as your first post seems to imply that this is the problem), just look for ones that seem more in line with your abilities. </p>
<p>I’d go talk to your advisor more about this.</p>
<p>Most state schools have honors programs.
Does the state school you currently attend have and honors program?..ask you advisor if you can enter their honors program. higher-level courses will usually get tougher, if you still don’t feel challanged enough, I would consider transferring. Also yes to kelseyg, some public schools are very challanging, UVA and UMich come to mind,</p>
<p>good luck!</p>
<p>Yeah, if you do eventually decide to transfer and money is still an issue I would check out schools like jbhgy mentioned which may be more generous than similar privates… though I know some can be just as expensive `,:</p>
<p>just wait classes get way harder, enjoy it when theyre easy</p>
<p>Trust me, your physics classes should get harder. You might also consider trying to get an undergraduate research position in the physics department.</p>