Great description of one of the hardest classes at Williams.

Chem 342: Synthetic Organic Chemistry

For those with enough testicular fortitude, this class is interesting but the workload is constant and makes intro orgo look rather pale by comparison. Getting through this class with a decent grade is a blessing bestowed upon few. With Smith its a whole new world of pain, he’s a great prof and helps out a lot but with:

Weekly Problems sets averaging 6-8 hours as a minimum (more like 12-14);
Two “6 hour” take-home midterms that would frighten the bravest chemist;

…

This class is no joke. But if you’re willing to get your ass kicked for a semester the knowledge imparted upon you is vast and powerful…for you shall become an Organic Chem Lord…

The class is MUCH more difficult and MUCH more time consuming when taken with Professor Thomas E. Smith (who incidentally has the initials TES…which would mean something to you if you took this course).

Perhaps one of our chemist readers can explain the TES joke. Tom Smith is a member of the class of 1988. Kudos to him for teaching a rigorous class while maintaining the affection of his students. It is easy to teach a hard class. It is easy to have your students love you. It is not easy to do both.