Tutorial in Astronomy is almost unnecessary, since the field is so small that professors and students are all on familiar terms. However, the last year says Whipple, there has been an attempt at getting a tutorial system organized; it should be available to all by next year.

Along with the department's tutorial plan, will come official status for another course in the field, "Introduction to Observing." Most of the concentrators have picked up their knowledge of observing technique as they become involved in research projects, according to Whipple. The new course, directed mainly at the undergraduate, will give everyone the opportunity to learn the hows and whys of peeking through a telescope, and making some mathematical sense of what one sees.

Biochemical Sciences

Concentrators: 215.

1951 Commencement Honors: cum, 13; magna, 2; summa 2.

This field is a haven for pre-meds who just want to satisfy their requirements. As a result, an influx of would-be doctors -- three out of every four concentrators are aiming for medical school--has swelled the department's size by 40 percent over last year.

More ambitious students who go out for honors will find this a tough but rewarding major. It is ideal for the man who wants a very fundamental, non-specialized preparation for post-graduate scientific research. The requirements permit wide latitude among the sciences and a chance to follow individual interests.

If you want an industrial job as soon as you get your B.A., you should major in Chemistry, for with Biochemistry further study after graduation is needed to open up opportunities in many fields. However, Biochem is your field if you're not yet ready to specialize.

Tutorial is the biggest reason for choosing this department over Biology. All non-honors concentrators in Biochemical Sciences receive group tutorial, while honors candidates get individual instruction. Concentrators are highly enthusiastic about this system which provides personal attention from top scientists.

Pre-Med Competition

Tutorial for credit is offered to senior honors candidates in conjunction with their thesis. Many seniors write lab theses, and students who receive a grade of B or better in Chemistry 40 may undertake individual research at the Medical School. For pre-meds this is a good opportunity to meet personnel at that institution.

In addition to writing a thesis, an honors candidate must take seven and one-half instead of six courses in the field and answer special questions on the general examinations required for all concentrators.

Non-honors concentrators take two and one-half courses in chemistry, usually Chem 1, 20, and 40. Along with these they generally take Math 1, Bio. 1, and Physics 1 or 11. As these are standard pre-med courses, the competition in them is fierce.

Among the highest courses in the field, George Wald's Biology 190, General Biochemistry, is a favorite. Students rate it as not especially hard, but extremely informative and well-taught.

Chemistry 60, Physical Chemistry, required for all honors candidates, is considered a rough course. Students this year found the first half which was given by George B. Kistiakowsky very good but were disappointed in Wilson's spring term.