Classes and Spring Break

These past few weeks have been going pretty well with classes. The one thing that I have been wondering about is, why do professors think that math and science tests are best done with multiple choice? I was always taught that the most important thing in math was understanding the process, and even if you didn't get the correct answer, as long as you approached the problem correctly, then that was better than just getting an answer. Both my Calculus II class and my Physics class have only multiple choice tests, which is very frustrating for me. I am not very strong with math, and have been having problems getting good grades on the tests because I am not always able to get the correct answer. I am understanding the current material just as well as the material presented in Calculus I, but my test average has dropped from a 90% down to a 70%.

It really is a problem with the idea of the math emporium. I know so many people who hate the math emporium and how math classes require students to take tests and quizzes on the computer. For some people, especially those who are very smart with math, don't have any problems getting A's on all of the tests and quizzes, but those of us who can't do that usually struggle with those assignments. Some people who I have talked with have suggested that the math emporium was the only practical way for a professor to get test results quickly from hundreds of students, especially in classes that are lower level. I found this funny because my Calculus I professor had graders, and was able to return tests within a week. She seemed to take much more of an interest in the success of her students than my current Calculus professor. I believe that the way that a professor conducts grading for major assignments reflects on the quality of the professor.

I am sure that everyone is excited for spring break. I can't wait to get home and not have to worry about having to go to classes. Unfortunately, I will still have to study for several tests that are soon after the end of spring break. I don't really have anything planned for spring break, so I will just enjoy being able to relax.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have been filling out a lot of paperwork for West Point. There is much more stuff to do after being accepted than that of the entire application process. I will have to finish most of the current paperwork over spring break. They mail out two major packets of paperwork that must be completed and mailed back to them prior to R-Day (June 28th) when I report to West Point. They have given me the first packet of forms, and I am expecting the second sometime in mid-March. Unfortunately it will be shortly after spring break, and I won't be able to do it at home when I have a lot of free time.

This week I began preparing physically for West Point. Shortly after I arrive, I will have to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), and I have set a goal to try and max all of the areas on the test, which include pushups, situps, and a two mile run. I have started to run every day for at least an hour, followed by another hour of lifting and other various exercises.

I have also began to research some clubs and sports that I would like to do at West Point. Every cadet must participate in an intercollegiate sport or an intermural sport. I have known for a while that I want to be on the jump team, which I must try out for this October. I also would like to try the Combat Weapons Team.

4 more days 'till spring break!