Okay so, this summer, I am taking Trigonometry. But I think its a load of work for me to do over the summer. I asked to drop the class but my instructor says that it will show up as “withdrawal.” I’m wondering if this will affect my chances because if I am going to drop this class, I will be taking a 4th year in math in my school anyways, which will be Algebra 2/ Trig. The colleges I’m applying to are Cal States colleges. Will dropping a summer HS class affect my chances of going to a Cal State school?
You need at the minimum to apply to a Cal State: Algebra 1/2 and Geometry. If have taken or will take them, then you are OK. However, depending upon what you plan to major in at the Cal States and which schools you are applying, you may be at a disadvantage if you do not have at least Pre-calc under your belt.
What about the major of Anthropology and Chemistry ?
The more competitive the Cal State, the more rigorous your HS courses need to be. Anthropology is not a math heavy major, so your current level of Math should not be a problem. But for Chemistry you should be prepared to take 2-4 semesters/quarters of Calculus at the competitive Cal states such Cal Poly SLO, SDSU, CSULB. Not having Pre-calc could set you back a few semesters in your required pre-req’s.
Well, I’ll be asking my counselor if I can take Trigonometry next year. Can I take Pre-Calc during my college year and then take Calculus during the summer after my Freshman year in college to be caught up with my pre-reqs?
Yes, you could take Calculus during the summer but usually you need Calc 1 and 2. Also you will be expected to take a Math placement test prior to registering for classes at the Cal State you end up attending. If you do not pass the placement test, you will be taking a remedial math class prior to taking Pre-calc. If you go for the Anthropology major, you still be required to take 1 or 2 math classes, but could possibly get away with only Pre-calc and Stats. I have no idea which Cal States you will be applying, I am just giving you an idea, that only having up to the minimum math requirements may set up back a bit in college and impact your chances in getting into some of the competitive Cal States.
Okay thanks. I’m taking Trigonometry during my senior year, which will be my 4th year of math. Im planning to apply to San Jose State, San Francisco State, Cal State Fullerton, and CSU Los Angeles.
What is your intended major, CSU GPA and test scores?
Either Anthropology or Chemistry ( Going to Pharmacy School after )
CSU GPA : 3.17
SAT Math: 520
SAT: 480
Writing Score: 8
ACT Composite: 20
ACT English: 22
ACT Math: 23
ACT Science: 20
ACT Reading: 16
ACT Writing Score: 8
The Cal states use the eligibility index to rank applicants for each major. They then accept from the highest EI down until all the spots are filled.
Your EI for the SAT is 3536 and for the ACT is 834.
SJSU is the only CSU that publishes their EI thresholds for each major.
For Anthropology, you need a 3000/720 and Chemistry you need a 3200/790 which you meet.
You stand a good chance for an acceptance at SJSU,CSULA and SFSU based on the SJSU table listed below.
CSUF will be a slight reach since you want an EI of around 3700/850.
http://info.sjsu.edu/web-dbgen/narr/admission/rec-10079.12651.html
Good Luck.