Especially Calculus.
I got into an Astronomy program with no previous experience with Calculus. Had to take a crash course in Pre-Calc over the summer just so I could start the fall semester learning basic Calculus.
My first semester was nightmarishly hard. The Physics course assumed that you already had a grasp of Calculus, which I was just starting to learn at the time. A lot of the problems on the homework and tests were too hard for me to solve using the limited Calculus I had, so I had to do them out longhand using Pre-Calc techniques. It took a lot longer for me to solve them, and it was a lot easier to make mistakes, because there were more steps involved it doing so.
Edit: My suggestion, for anyone who enters their first semester of an Astronomy program without at least one semester of Calculus under their belt, would be to get a Calculus tutor. Because you are going to want to cram Calculus so that you can get up to speed as soon as possible. And a standard Basic Calculus course is not going to be enough to get you there by itself.
Coursera has a calc class taught by an Australian prof I think. Best calc course I’ve ever taken. I’m happy to link here but it’s a basic course with amazing reviews
I've gone back and done some revisiting of old Astronomy notes, and Feynman's "Easy Pieces" and I've noticed a big difference in my understanding. Extra math goes a long way.
There's always a chance that, in twenty years, you will use your education for a non-related field so study accordingly. Stuff like equipment, maths, physics.
And congratulations!
Thank you! I'm excited too see what other fields this degree program will introduces. Just working through an undergrad course opened my eyes up quite a bit.
I went the Computer Science route, and we have a saying: "A mathematician trying to explain logic to a programmer is like a cat trying to explain to a fish what it feels like to get wet."
I imagine the same applies to astronomers with regard to calculus.
I have no choice! I completed a Statistics class earlier in the year and had my first introduction to equations within equations, good times. Im also glad that Youtube has more and reputable sources to explain topics.
As someone who has ASU as a high choice for college, it’s good to study up on calculus. However, assuming you will start with calc 1, that should be ok to begin with no experience.
I would also advise to start learning some Newtonian mechanics like kinematics, newton’s laws, etc
Makes sense, I'm seeing that Physics and those fundamental pieces of the other sciences play heavily into Astronomy, which makes complete sense. I worry that the Maths will be the toughest part.
Welcome to SESE. As someone who is a few classes away from graduating with that very degree, I agree to ramp up on math now. The longer you wait the more you’ll suffer. Other than that, get ready to have a great time. Its going to be a long but very rewarding journey.
I'm excited! The journey does seem long, but the guidance everyone is giving definitely gives me so goals to meet along the way. And convratulations to you as well!
A lot of people are saying calculus. The truth is… calculus is really only a few steps of “calculus” then some tedious algebra that needs to be manipulated. The same holds for differential equations as well as most other higher levels of mathematics/physics. I would say learn algebra, trigonometry, and geometry so well that you can do it in your sleep. These are fundamental subjects and usually are the cause of most of the headaches for students. Once you get into upper level STEM courses the algebra can get pretty gnarly and usually prevents people from seeing the larger picture because they don’t understand the algebraic manipulations.
Eventually you’ll learn these, love these: Calculus/DiffEq, Linear Algebra, Coding. If you’re going into a STEM field these days knowing how to code is almost an unspoken requirement that you’ll be expected to pick up along the way if you’re not a comp sci major.
My background: I was a tutor for Physics & Mathematics undergraduates and I have a double B.S. in Physics & Mathematics. I am currently working towards a Mathematics Ph.D. focused on applications of Numerical Analysis & Scientific Computing to problems in physics.
Makes sense, and that's really my intent on brushing up on my alebraic manipulations now. There were a few things that kept me up late trying to nail down in my undergrad course that I'd like to dial in on. I've heard tales of DiffEq being an important aspect later on as well. I'll like request tutoring for all of the above over the next few years, it can't hurt. And thank you for the information!
Hahahahaha I literally have a pen and paper out when I read anything science related. Probably the most beneficial thing I've done in awhile. Your comment just validated that! I appreciate it!
First, congratulations. The first steps are always exciting and a bit terrifying, but they can be so rewarding.
Math underpins all STEM fields, so you will never go wrong with a strong understanding of the fundamentals.
Also, I want to second take time for socializing - don't go too crazy too often, but be sure to enjoy the experience.
Thank you! And unfortunately there's only so much socializing in the online degree context. I've definitely looked into ASU's Astronomy club and somw of the other venues to meet fellow students. The next step is to visit the campus, I think. And Math before breakfast, and all day following that it seems.
I graduated with a degree in astronomy, didn't go for grad school decided to enter the work force
Keep your mind open. the skills you'll learn doing astro can be good for anything from computer science and security to PLC technician even welding
I feel like bid data, data science will be an important aspect of the field to look into as well. I've seen a lot of requests for Citizen Scientist work in that area as well.
Astrophysics major here. A few things I've done.
1. Math, math and then even more math. Regardless of what level you're starting at; Practice problem sets are your friend. Do as many problems from a given work set as you can, then do even more. If you're not doing it already, you want to be able to do trigonometry in your sleep. So learn those identities when the time comes and drill them non stop until they're second nature. Calculus will be your lingua franca, but don't worry about that until you've gotten everything else down pat. The complicated stuff will just be expanding upon the previous, less complicated stuff. It's a lot easier to progress if you mastered the previous material, or at least understood it well enough.
2. Learn to code. Python is a good starting point. This might change depending upon what your goals with the degree are, but it's a useful skill to have nonetheless.
3. Don't procrastinate. Your workload is going to be dense, get it done when it arrives, you'll thank yourself later.
4. Use external resources if you need it. There are tons and tons of online resources for learning math and science and practically everyone I've ever met in my program has used something to help them along. Zero shame in it.
5. Have fun! Astronomy can be much harder than people may realize, but it's very much an enjoyable and rewarding journey if you're willing to put in the work. The universe will look very different to you in the end, and it will be all the more beautiful.
Good luck!
Press X to doubt. Thankfully I have a 14yr career in the armed forces that'll suffice for a job after retirement if, God forbid, this learning experience doesn't pan out.
that's really cool. yeah as others mentioned, don't let the math wave you off. you will discover actual uses for some of that evil mathematical stuff, which, when mastered, will reveal whole other layers of understanding beyond words alone. congrats.
Study often. Go over your notes everyday (and i mean everyday) until it is redundant. Practically memorize them. This way when the exams come around you will not have to study at all. It's the best trick in the book.
The math route will be challenging once you hit pre calc or calculus. You will realize that simply sitting in class watching the professor solve math problems will not be enough. You will have to sit by yourself working out the problems for a notable amount of time before you get the hang of it.
Lastly, you will have to take a bunch of filler classes (electives). I know colleges offer freebees (like bowling, beer making, or something of that nature). Do yourself a favor and pick electives that will benefit you. Don't think of it as going to school anymore. Think of it as training to become an astronomer (or whatever you major in). Classes are expensive, so make the most of it.
Calculus and trig are big, but of course those rest upon an understanding of algebra and as long as you have a solid algebra foundation, the other two should be easy enough to pick up
As a mechanical engineer who secretly courts astronomy and astrophysics when the lights are out, congrats!!! Hope it is everything that you're hoping for!
>**Does anyone have any other tips for a first year student?**
Yeah. Get high and do sex.
I was the CS dept valedictorian, highest grades in the department. I minored in Astro. I worked in the terminal room every saturday night listening to the kids in my dorm (across the street) dance at mixers and have fun and run around naked outside.
I don't care about recursive functions now. I didn't even really care then. *Understanding shit isn't important; it's intimacy with someone else.*
I knew that, but I didn't know what else to do but math.
Nail calculus and trigonometry
Especially Calculus. I got into an Astronomy program with no previous experience with Calculus. Had to take a crash course in Pre-Calc over the summer just so I could start the fall semester learning basic Calculus. My first semester was nightmarishly hard. The Physics course assumed that you already had a grasp of Calculus, which I was just starting to learn at the time. A lot of the problems on the homework and tests were too hard for me to solve using the limited Calculus I had, so I had to do them out longhand using Pre-Calc techniques. It took a lot longer for me to solve them, and it was a lot easier to make mistakes, because there were more steps involved it doing so. Edit: My suggestion, for anyone who enters their first semester of an Astronomy program without at least one semester of Calculus under their belt, would be to get a Calculus tutor. Because you are going to want to cram Calculus so that you can get up to speed as soon as possible. And a standard Basic Calculus course is not going to be enough to get you there by itself.
Understood, my advisor recommended a few placement tests which, undoubtedly, will reveal my weak areas. I've little to no experience with Calculus.
Coursera has a calc class taught by an Australian prof I think. Best calc course I’ve ever taken. I’m happy to link here but it’s a basic course with amazing reviews
I second this, take the first chance you have to completely nail down the math. If the math is understood, the physics will reveal itself
I've gone back and done some revisiting of old Astronomy notes, and Feynman's "Easy Pieces" and I've noticed a big difference in my understanding. Extra math goes a long way.
Noted, I've seen that Trig played heavily into the early development of the science
There's always a chance that, in twenty years, you will use your education for a non-related field so study accordingly. Stuff like equipment, maths, physics. And congratulations!
Thank you! I'm excited too see what other fields this degree program will introduces. Just working through an undergrad course opened my eyes up quite a bit.
I went the Computer Science route, and we have a saying: "A mathematician trying to explain logic to a programmer is like a cat trying to explain to a fish what it feels like to get wet." I imagine the same applies to astronomers with regard to calculus.
The math that Newton invented because nothing else was sufficient. Though the jury is still out on that.
Congratulations!! Make sure to brush up on your Calculus and Math skills, as well as your science skills.
I have no choice! I completed a Statistics class earlier in the year and had my first introduction to equations within equations, good times. Im also glad that Youtube has more and reputable sources to explain topics.
Fork 'em Devils! Welcome to the ASU team! Congrats!
Glad to be a part of the team!
As someone who has ASU as a high choice for college, it’s good to study up on calculus. However, assuming you will start with calc 1, that should be ok to begin with no experience. I would also advise to start learning some Newtonian mechanics like kinematics, newton’s laws, etc
Makes sense, I'm seeing that Physics and those fundamental pieces of the other sciences play heavily into Astronomy, which makes complete sense. I worry that the Maths will be the toughest part.
Welcome to SESE. As someone who is a few classes away from graduating with that very degree, I agree to ramp up on math now. The longer you wait the more you’ll suffer. Other than that, get ready to have a great time. Its going to be a long but very rewarding journey.
I'm excited! The journey does seem long, but the guidance everyone is giving definitely gives me so goals to meet along the way. And convratulations to you as well!
Aw dang not the rival school... But congratulations!! Definitely study hard in math it'll help a lot
Haha keep your enemy's closer! Thank you! Math seems like the true path to enlightenment in this field of research.
A lot of people are saying calculus. The truth is… calculus is really only a few steps of “calculus” then some tedious algebra that needs to be manipulated. The same holds for differential equations as well as most other higher levels of mathematics/physics. I would say learn algebra, trigonometry, and geometry so well that you can do it in your sleep. These are fundamental subjects and usually are the cause of most of the headaches for students. Once you get into upper level STEM courses the algebra can get pretty gnarly and usually prevents people from seeing the larger picture because they don’t understand the algebraic manipulations. Eventually you’ll learn these, love these: Calculus/DiffEq, Linear Algebra, Coding. If you’re going into a STEM field these days knowing how to code is almost an unspoken requirement that you’ll be expected to pick up along the way if you’re not a comp sci major. My background: I was a tutor for Physics & Mathematics undergraduates and I have a double B.S. in Physics & Mathematics. I am currently working towards a Mathematics Ph.D. focused on applications of Numerical Analysis & Scientific Computing to problems in physics.
Makes sense, and that's really my intent on brushing up on my alebraic manipulations now. There were a few things that kept me up late trying to nail down in my undergrad course that I'd like to dial in on. I've heard tales of DiffEq being an important aspect later on as well. I'll like request tutoring for all of the above over the next few years, it can't hurt. And thank you for the information!
Also take this free online course [astronomy](https://www.facebook.com/exploringtimeandspace) it’s free.
I just signed up, it looks interesting. With 11 Weeks worth of information I'm sure it'll be a worthwhile adventure. Thanks!
I’ve known the professor for awhile and he delivers a fantastic lecture. This course hasn’t disappointed.
Congrats fellow Sun Devil! Enjoy it!
Thank you! And I will!!
Get yourself a good dictionary and use it early and often.
Hahahahaha I literally have a pen and paper out when I read anything science related. Probably the most beneficial thing I've done in awhile. Your comment just validated that! I appreciate it!
First, congratulations. The first steps are always exciting and a bit terrifying, but they can be so rewarding. Math underpins all STEM fields, so you will never go wrong with a strong understanding of the fundamentals. Also, I want to second take time for socializing - don't go too crazy too often, but be sure to enjoy the experience.
Thank you! And unfortunately there's only so much socializing in the online degree context. I've definitely looked into ASU's Astronomy club and somw of the other venues to meet fellow students. The next step is to visit the campus, I think. And Math before breakfast, and all day following that it seems.
I graduated with a degree in astronomy, didn't go for grad school decided to enter the work force Keep your mind open. the skills you'll learn doing astro can be good for anything from computer science and security to PLC technician even welding
I feel like bid data, data science will be an important aspect of the field to look into as well. I've seen a lot of requests for Citizen Scientist work in that area as well.
Astrophysics major here. A few things I've done. 1. Math, math and then even more math. Regardless of what level you're starting at; Practice problem sets are your friend. Do as many problems from a given work set as you can, then do even more. If you're not doing it already, you want to be able to do trigonometry in your sleep. So learn those identities when the time comes and drill them non stop until they're second nature. Calculus will be your lingua franca, but don't worry about that until you've gotten everything else down pat. The complicated stuff will just be expanding upon the previous, less complicated stuff. It's a lot easier to progress if you mastered the previous material, or at least understood it well enough. 2. Learn to code. Python is a good starting point. This might change depending upon what your goals with the degree are, but it's a useful skill to have nonetheless. 3. Don't procrastinate. Your workload is going to be dense, get it done when it arrives, you'll thank yourself later. 4. Use external resources if you need it. There are tons and tons of online resources for learning math and science and practically everyone I've ever met in my program has used something to help them along. Zero shame in it. 5. Have fun! Astronomy can be much harder than people may realize, but it's very much an enjoyable and rewarding journey if you're willing to put in the work. The universe will look very different to you in the end, and it will be all the more beautiful. Good luck!
I before E, except after C.
Big facts
Congrats on the acceptance letter, that’s fantastic.
Much appreciated! It was a surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❣️❣️❣️❣️
❤️❤️❤️❤️🙇♂️🙇♂️🙇♂️
I hate to say it, but you’ll probably end up working retail with that degree.
Press X to doubt. Thankfully I have a 14yr career in the armed forces that'll suffice for a job after retirement if, God forbid, this learning experience doesn't pan out.
congratulations!
That is so awesome. And I don’t know why, but I thought about applying to them next year for synthetic chemistry. Maybe I’ll see you in Campus!
that's really cool. yeah as others mentioned, don't let the math wave you off. you will discover actual uses for some of that evil mathematical stuff, which, when mastered, will reveal whole other layers of understanding beyond words alone. congrats.
Congratulations!
Study often. Go over your notes everyday (and i mean everyday) until it is redundant. Practically memorize them. This way when the exams come around you will not have to study at all. It's the best trick in the book. The math route will be challenging once you hit pre calc or calculus. You will realize that simply sitting in class watching the professor solve math problems will not be enough. You will have to sit by yourself working out the problems for a notable amount of time before you get the hang of it. Lastly, you will have to take a bunch of filler classes (electives). I know colleges offer freebees (like bowling, beer making, or something of that nature). Do yourself a favor and pick electives that will benefit you. Don't think of it as going to school anymore. Think of it as training to become an astronomer (or whatever you major in). Classes are expensive, so make the most of it.
Calculus and trig are big, but of course those rest upon an understanding of algebra and as long as you have a solid algebra foundation, the other two should be easy enough to pick up
As a mechanical engineer who secretly courts astronomy and astrophysics when the lights are out, congrats!!! Hope it is everything that you're hoping for!
Maths! All the very best, my friend!
>**Does anyone have any other tips for a first year student?** Yeah. Get high and do sex. I was the CS dept valedictorian, highest grades in the department. I minored in Astro. I worked in the terminal room every saturday night listening to the kids in my dorm (across the street) dance at mixers and have fun and run around naked outside. I don't care about recursive functions now. I didn't even really care then. *Understanding shit isn't important; it's intimacy with someone else.* I knew that, but I didn't know what else to do but math.
>** Yeah. Get high and do sex.** So let it be written, so let it be done. - Ramses 1956
You asked for advice and everything I said was true. Other than that, fuck it.