Dear Students who have signed up for Big Data with Python,

I am really excited for the class and think we are all going to learn a lot about Python and Environmental Data.  However due to the time intensive nature of the class and limited room we have a 30 student limit.  Not everyone will get into the class.

Remember this class is designed for people with limited programming knowledge and who are majoring or working in the Earth, environmental, or related sciences and majors.   If you are an engineering major you should NOT take this course and take an engineering programming course and not this course.  It is NOT appropriate for computer science majors or student who have previously taken multiple programming classes as we go through a lot of programming basics.  Also, it is NOT appropriate for Actuarial Science or other Masters or graduate students.  I am going to leave everyone on the waitlist until the first class.  I will use this survey to choose students.  The students I choose will be based on the following criteria:

-Environmental based major/minor or thesis 
-Seniority
-Limited programming background
- Did not get into the class last semester.
-Computer Science, Engineering, and graduate students (unless special permission has been given) will have the lowest priority and will most likely NOT be allowed to take the course.
-You must come to the first class.

If I don't think the class is appropriate for you I will let you know after you have filled out the survey.   Before you come to the first class you should install anaconda to be ready.  Follow the link on the first page of the class website.  https://edblogs.columbia.edu/eescx3050-001-2015-3/category/classes/class-1-intro/ 
 
Sincerely, Brian Mailloux