Advanced Placement (AP) classes are often seen as one of the best ways for high school students to challenge themselves academically. While they can provide valuable opportunities, I believe AP classes are only beneficial when students take them for the right reasons and truly understand the responsibility that comes with them. These courses can prepare students for college, but they can also create unnecessary stress when students overload their schedules or feel pressured to enroll in them. One of the biggest advantages and benefits of AP classes is that they expose students to college level work while they are still in high school. The classes often require more reading and stronger study habits than regular courses. Because of this students learn important skills like time management, organization, and critical thinking skills. It is very important for a student to not fall behind because it can cause more stress in the long run, with a heavy workload to catch back up. Taking AP classes can make the transition to college easier and help students feel more prepared for academic challenges. Another advantage of AP classes is the opportunity to earn college credit. At the end of the year, students have the opportunity to choose to take an AP exam that can potentially allow them to skip certain introductory college courses if they score well. AP classes can be extremely valuable when students choose them carefully and are prepared for the challenge. They offer the chance to develop strong academic skills, experience college-level learning, and possibly earn college credit. Before a student decides to enroll in an AP class it’s very important they know what they are getting themselves into and they ask themselves, “am I really going to be committed for the workload to come.” AP doesn’t just take in classroom participation, it takes commitment outside of the classroom to complete the readings for the chapters, gather and learn outside information to help benefit your understanding of the SAQ writings and prepare any questions they may have over the unit. Students should make sure they are taking AP classes because they are interested in the subject and ready for the responsibility, not simply because they feel pressured to do so. One thing that I’ve learned from taking an AP class is the responsibility to stay on top of things and stay organized with not only my AP class but with all my other classes. Learning how to manage stress is an important part of taking an AP class. While the goal is to challenge students academically, it is also important for students to take care of their mental well being. A healthy balance between hard work and rest can help students stay motivated and perform better in the long run. Taking a break or doing something that makes you happy and uplifts you does not mean you’re giving up, recognizing your hard work does not mean you’re self centered and selfish it means you’ve come a long way and have something good to look back on.
