By Minh Ngoc Le
High school life is filled with challenges, whether it be peer pressure or expectations to exceed. Especially among high-achieving students, the forefront of these challenges is the debate surrounding Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Many students tend to cram as many AP courses as they can into their schedule, not knowing of the true consequences and toll it can take on their mental well-being and overall life balance.
Advanced Placement classes, as defined by the College Board, is a program that offers college-level courses and exams available to take in high school. Though these courses allow students to earn college credit and boost their GPA, they are often not suited for the typical high school schedule and lifestyle overall.
Are these courses, designed to be more advanced, truly suited for the average high school student?
More classes, more work.
Most high school students are offered up to six classes, while college students often take about 3 classes each semester. With an increased amount of classes, high school students are forced to divide their time accordingly, ensuring that they thrive in each class while also managing to bear the workload of AP courses. The diversity of subjects demands time and attention, leaving students stretched thin as they strive to achieve academic excellence in all areas of life. With fewer classes, college students are able to focus more on their subject, allowing them to truly understand and dedicate themselves to mastering the material.
Higher meeting frequency
Unlike their college counterparts, high school students must contend with more frequent class meetings, leaving them with less time to process information and complete assignments. Imagine coming home from your practice at 8 pm, having to complete 6 homework assignments- all of which are due the following day, then getting up to do so yet again. With a less demanding schedule of classes, college students can fully understand the concepts while also having time to take care of the other areas of their lives.
Some may argue that college courses are more in-depth, and as such, are more difficult than AP courses. However, with a higher age comes more knowledge, and college students, equipped with a more mature understanding of their subjects as well as essential life skills, are able to be more successful in completing their coursework.
Clubs, Sports, Jobs
Piles upon piles of extracurriculars are not a rare sight among high schoolers striving to achieve optimum excellence. As high schoolers, students are pressured to thrive in school while also building a resume for themselves — whether it be a club board position, a sports team captain, or founder of a nonprofit — teens as young as 14 years old are actively fighting for their spot to put their feet in the admissions door.
The weight of extracurriculars, along with the responsibilities of academics, creates a complex challenge for high school students compared to their college counterparts. Although engaged in extracurricular activities, college students typically have a more mature approach to managing their time and commitments. The intensity of high school extracurriculars and responsibilities is heightened by the competitive nature of college admissions, driving students to push their limits and showcase a diverse skill set. In contrast, college students often have a more focused approach, balancing their academics and extracurriculars with a greater sense of direction and planning.
However, there are advantages.
Despite the challenges posed by AP courses, there are still many advantages offered. With a cost of up to $100.00 per AP test, students can save money and time by fulfilling their credits and potentially graduating early. Those who challenge themselves with AP courses are also more likely to succeed, as they are equipped with the necessary skills and mindsets to thrive in higher education.
The question of whether AP courses are truly suited for the average high school student is a complex one, with the struggle to manage increased workload, higher meeting frequency, and the clash of responsibilities. While AP courses offer potential advantages, the toll on students’ well-being cannot be ignored. As students move forward, it is essential to recognize that success is not measured by the number of AP courses taken, but by the ability to navigate these challenges while maintaining a healthy and fulfilling high school experience. In the journey towards your future, stay in the present and enjoy the moment when you still can.
