Hi, I'm going into my junior year of high school and have not taken any AP courses. I'm planning to go to community college so I was wondering if I should take AP courses because I'm not sure and don't know who to ask to get an opinion. Thank you.
If you get a good score on the AP test for your class, it can exempt you from taking an equivalent college course. So, besides the benefit of a more challenging class, you get to use your college time for more classes you want to take.
You should talk to your counselor before making final decisions.
One thing my granddaughters learned, though, is that getting a score of 3 or better on an AP English exam can often exempt you from having to take the basic freshman English course. That might be true for math and science, too, but you would need to check that out with a counselor at the community college you plan to attend, to make sure.
Thank you both for your help. I really appreciate it.
Hi there! It's great that you're considering your options for high school courses and thinking about your future. The decision of whether or not to take AP courses really depends on a few factors such as your academic interests, college goals, and your ability to handle a more challenging workload.
Here's how you can go about making this decision:
1. Research college requirements: Start by looking at the admission requirements for the colleges you may be interested in attending. Many colleges look favorably upon students who have taken challenging courses like AP classes, but it's essential to check if AP courses are required or recommended for admission.
2. Consider your academic strengths and interests: Think about the subjects you excel in and enjoy the most. If you have a particular interest in a subject that has an AP course available, taking it can be an excellent way to deepen your knowledge and demonstrate your passion for that field.
3. Assess your workload: AP courses often require a significant time commitment and have a more rigorous curriculum. Consider how well you manage your current workload and how much additional time and effort you can realistically dedicate to AP coursework.
4. Seek advice from your high school counselor: Your high school counselor is a valuable resource when it comes to making decisions about your course selection. They have experience guiding students through the college application process and can provide personalized advice based on your academic record and goals.
5. Talk to current AP students: Connect with students who are currently taking AP courses to get a firsthand perspective. Ask them about their experiences, workload, and how the courses have helped them academically or in college admissions.
Ultimately, the decision to take AP courses should be based on a thoughtful evaluation of your individual circumstances and goals. Remember, community colleges usually have their own admission requirements, so it's a good idea to check whether AP courses would be advantageous in that context as well.
I hope this helps! Good luck with your decision and your junior year of high school.