This sounds somewhat similar to my experience in mathematics. I realized part way through college that I would only gain an innate understanding of a topic about two semesters into a harder one - ie I only had a firm grasp of Calculus I once I took Calculus III. I would still do well in those courses, but I would have to follow the motions at times. Alas, this meant the tail end of my education was doomed to some courses I only sort of understood. Fortunately I didnt major in it.