VCE chem in biomed?

[akfdsmd]

New biomed student at unimelb this year, I was wondering if anyone has any insight on the chemistry taught in first year biomed? Specifically what topics from VCE chem is relevant to 1st year biomed chem?

I'm a bit anxious since I did super badly in vce chemistry - I barely met the chem study score pre req for biomed and worried that I won't be able to keep up with everyone else

thank you so much!

[VanillaRice]

Hi there!

According to the unit handbook for the first year core chemistry unit, a big overlap with VCE would be organic chemistry.

Of course, since you're studying biomed, I would also recommend revising macromolecules, energy from food etc.

Hope this helps

[Alter]

I'm a bit anxious since I did super badly in vce chemistry - I barely met the chem study score pre req for biomed and worried that I won't be able to keep up with everyone else

thank you so much!

Just replying to let you know I understand where you're coming from. VCE Chem was my lowest mark (got a 31 raw) and I did Chem for biomed in 1st year, just as you are. The bottom line is that Chem for Biomed is a difficult subject, but at the end of the day it's also a new slate. Obviously there will be overlap between the content, but you have to let go of your former difficulties and try to embrace it as a new experience. If you put in the work, you'll get rewarded. Simple as that.

I'd advise going over biomolecules and organic chemistry as they will be massively important. Unit 4 probably doesn't come up AS much, but ideas about gibbs free energy and spontaneity will be relevant throughout your degree. Have a glance at the subject reviews thread in this subforum for more info about the subject if you're nervous about what lies ahead.

[Tildaf98]

Specifically what topics from VCE chem is relevant to 1st year biomed chem?

Hey! I just wanted to add with the new study design changes made to the 2017 design, VCAA has definitely geared it up more towards an easier transition into university Chemistry! Stuff of chirality, the rancidity of oils (the electron movement involved) and even the addition of aldehydes and ketones is all new to the study design and is definitely relevant to year Chem! And even to some extent the food chemistry (especially the carbohydrates).
No doubt it's a difficult subject, but if you're prepared to work hard, just take everything in your stride and the results will work themselves out! You'll be ace!