Are AP Classes Really Worth it?

At IKE we have some AP courses offered to us, such as AP World History, AP US History, AP Chemistry, and AP Music Theory, just to name a few. But what does AP mean? AP stands for advanced placement, and, during the spring semester, you will take a lengthy test where, if you get a 3, 4, or 5, you are able to receive college credit. The problem with AP courses is that material, usually taught in a year long class with tests throughout the year, is severely condensed into 9 months with one large test determining if you receive college credit. Another problem is that some colleges will only accept a 4 or higher, while other colleges simply do not offer courses that are equivalent to it, meaning all that hard work and studying would have been for, virtually, nothing. AP classes can not only be more stressful than other classes, but can also be hard to manage on top of 5 other classes and extracurricular activities. AP classes tend to assign more work than a regular class.

    While there are some negatives, there are also positives, taking AP courses in high school can help prepare you for college courses. They can also open your opportunities to more scholarships and help your chances of getting accepted into University. Personally, I took one AP course last year, that one being AP World History, and felt that, with the right teacher, these courses can be very beneficial. This year, I am taking two AP classes, and I have found no free time in my schedule because I can get multiple assignments each day that tend to be lengthy. I asked some fellow students who either have taken or are currently taking AP courses their opinions: “I enjoy them and think they’re worth taking, if not for the college credit, then higher-level classes and like-minded people make it worth the work. I’ll be honest and say that I’ve thought about quitting and transferring to running start or even just taking basic classes to maintain a GPA, but I always come back to AP. Anyone can do running start or sustain a good GPA in regular classes, but not everyone can pass AP tests, and it looks better for college. I enjoy the teachers that I’ve had, and the work and conversations I have with classmates are stimulating and engaging. I truly feel like I am learning.” Another student I spoke to said, “Personally I am a very learning oriented person, I enjoy learning, I enjoy school, I like meeting new people like me in those classes. I genuinely enjoy these classes because it makes learning more enjoyable with more and harder material.”

    I also asked some fellow peers who are not taking or have not taken AP courses about how they felt about taking AP courses: “I feel like AP classes can be beneficial, but certain students can use it as some sort of educational high ground and cause others to feel inferior to them.” Another student said, “ It seems pointless to me if you are a regular student, it creates an unnecessary competition for those in AP compared to those in regular classes.” Another student says “I think AP classes can be way too stressful with a full class load.” It seems like the opinions of students about these courses can be split down between the two. I feel those who can take AP courses should look into the classes if you feel as if it would be beneficial for you as a student.