<p>Okay so I’m in my third year of community college (BCC in New Jersey), more than the typical two most people are in before they go somewhere else. I’ve been in between five different majors, but the career path I want to take the most is computer science, as I <em>really</em> want to work in programming and related fields. However thanks to numerous disabilities I’ve had which kept me in special ed throughout grade school and high school, I’ve only been able to make it to modified levels of Algebra 1 and Geometry (however I passed both these classes with high As). So far I’ve taken developmental math courses my college offers which I’ve done okay with, however I’m still scared to move on to college-level courses. I would have to take pre-calc, and then make it to Calc 3 before graduating with just an associates degree. So could someone here somehow help me overcome my fears or something, since I really want to make up my mind so I can finally get out of here and graduate so I can go elsewhere. Thanks a lot.</p>
<p>I’m not gonna’ lie; Precalc is a big step up from Intermediate Algebra (Algebra II). They introduce functions, which are the precursors to the expressions used in calculus. There will be a lot of polynomials, graphing and trigonometry; all in preparation for calculus concepts. </p>
<p>If your goal is a computer science degree, there is no way around taking PreCalc and several Calc courses, so you may as well get started. Check out the Math Walk-in Tutoring Center ( <a href=“http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/2191.aspx[/url]”>http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/2191.aspx</a> ), and consider hiring a private tutor. If you have documented disabilities, then you can receive accommodations from the [Office</a> of Specialized Services - OSS](<a href=“http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/5175.aspx]Office”>http://www.bergen.edu/pages1/Pages/5175.aspx)</p>
<p>Al F. (Paramus resident for 18 yrs)</p>
<p>Sorry, I actually go to Burlington County college, not Bergen. I do have an accommodation plan but it’s only for additional time on tests which probably wouldn’t help me much in these courses if I end up struggling with the material.</p>