How "Required" are the textbooks?

[mog]

I was just wondering - saw many posts in Students' market place forum that say "brand new, untouched" selling the textbooks. Does that mean that you can actually go without using the "required" textbooks (or are they just marketing phrases)? For several subjects I have my preferred textbooks other than the assigned ones, and was wondering if I can go without buying some of the books but instead using my own selection of the textbooks?

I know this is not officially accepted, but I just wanted to know the real situation... if the senior students (even the 2nd sem students) can fill me in that would be appreciated. Thanks!

[HeyMcfly]

Yes you can easily manage to pass the courses without textbooks. You will need something to help you study for boards though such as BRS.

[mog]

Thank you for the reply! So, I understand that you can go get prepared for the boards without using the "SMU required" textbooks, but does it mean that I don't have to buy some of the books? Profs don't mind that? I mean they have their own list of the textbooks and if I have different set of books, it wouldn't matter in the class?

Thanks for any inputs, in advance :D

[HeyMcfly]

No, it wouldn't matter in the class. Lots of people buy the "required" text books and they just collect dust. For the classes the profs base their tests from their lectures. So you can learn from their notes and the notes you make in class. Although it does help to have some books in certain classes like biochem because Dr. N, cuts and pastes many of his exam questions from the back of the BRS. They also have a library at the school if you're in dire need of one of the books at the last minute. Then just read it or photocopy it if it's not much.

[mog]

Hi McFly,

Thank you so much for your reply. You saved me a lot of amount buying books I won't use :D I've already bought some books, but now I'll just stick to my books, which are mainly BRS.

Thanks a lot again for your kind advice!