<p>How much of a difference is there between sophomore level classes (a year beyond AP/class composed mostly of sophomores) and introductory level classes (social analysis 10, those kinds)? in terms of workload, grading, getting help, getting along with peers, etc., how much difficulty would a freshman face going into a sophomore level class (say, skipping Social analysis 10 and going into Econ 1010)?</p>
<p>My freshmen year, three of my roommates took SA 10 and one took Ec 1010a. The three of them worked together on all the problem sets which were of a reasonable length. Grading is generally giving, especially since the class is so large, so placing yourself minimally in the middle of the pack puts you in a very comfortable place. As for Ec 1010a, I do remember hearing that it tends to kick you from under a bit more. Nonetheless, the general population here tends to work in a cooperative environment. Grading was generous, I still remember hearing about midterms that had averages in the 40s/50s which ultimately left those with the average throughout the course with a very comfortable final grade.</p>
<p>If you have the background, it won’t be a problem. I know several freshman who did it. I almost did and then decided against econ altogether.</p>
<p>If you want to learn, lack family connections to work in Wall Street, take 1010a and 1010b (Math 21 or higher as a freshman).</p>
<p>If you care more about grades and do not want to work in Wall Street earlier then it is okay to take SA10. </p>
<p>If you have family connections to lend wall street internships, nothing matters. Chill and enjoy life.</p>
<p>To get quant Wall-Street internships, one must learn capital markets, econometrics, and much higher-level math. To qualify for IBD internships, you do not need to take any intensive math based economics. </p>
<p>However, let me tell, if one has a family connections, one does not need to go to Harvard or attend a name brand school. With family connections, one can cruise and major in government or history or whatever they fancy to pursue as a major. </p>
<p>Present treasury secretary even did not major in economics but he was very well connected. Life is not fair so suck it up.</p>