Marty,

Taking Cell Biology you will learn more about the organelles beyond the general functions you were taught in freshman level biology. Going in greater detail and understanding then the general form and recognition you learned in Microbiology and AP. You will actually get a better understanding of the organelles form and function on a more granular level with the reason and purpose for their form and how they do their job and how it relates to the cell itself. This class will give you your first glimpse of the sophistication and complex biochemistry of the cell.  Nature does not waste energy and there is a reason and purpose for everything in nature though it may not be understood, there is a reason why and how; even to the simplest action and reaction. You will not just be studying the Eukaryotic Cell but the simple yet complex Prokaryotic Cells too, which are often overlooked.

Cell Biology is not a Biochemistry class or a Genetics class but those subjects will be discussed.  Giving you a taste and appreciation for them at a 200 undergraduate level. Hope this class will give you a reason to take Genetics and Biochemistry later in your undergraduate studies so you will have a better understanding of them.

Knowing you Marty and seeing your face light up going over histology in AP. You were also one of the few students that actually enjoyed Microbiology. Cell Biology will give you the details of the cell’s organelles you wanted. Stick with it even you are struggling. I know you are taking the class online. But pretend you are taking the class in lecture. Make yourself a schedule to listen and watch the Profs Video lectures and take notes like you are in class. Treat it like a regular lecture class with set times during the week. Don’t be afraid to email the Prof or set up an appointment to meet with her during her office hours if you are struggling with the material. Also you can get an idea of other students from PackBack and the class roaster. Don’t be a stranger or sell yourself short just because it is an online class.