Dear freshmen, are you interested in AP classes? Are you struggling to choose which ones to take or how many to take? If so, deciding all that can be an overwhelming task, but you’re not the only one who feels that way. Many upperclassmen have been through those same struggles and have gotten through them. Seniors Oluwatomi (Tomi) Fadele, Ian Batton, and Michael Bielec have all taken several AP classes and know what that stress is like. The Raider Review asked them some questions in order to help you plan out your future courses.
“Were AP classes easier or harder than you thought they would be? Is there a specific class that was difficult for you?”
Bielec said, “They are definitely harder than normal classes, but if you manage your time right, they are not too bad. Personally, the hardest AP class I have taken was AP Biology because there were a lot of notes and a lot of memorization.” Both Batton and Fadele shared a common response in how they were challenged with AP Chemistry. Batton stated, “AP Chem was definitely a difficult class just because of how difficult the curriculum was and the amount of things you learn in a short amount of time.” Fadele even said, “I was extremely confident based on my grade and performance in Honors Chemistry in 9th grade, and I automatically assumed that I would have a simple time in that class. However, the exact opposite happened.” Clearly AP classes require a lot of time. In any AP class, be sure to schedule your time wisely so you are able to understand the material and avoid falling behind.
“Which AP classes do you recommend all freshmen consider?”
Fadele said, “Take AP Government! It provided a solid understanding for me to truly understand America and what truly is supposed to govern our government.” On the other hand, Batton said, “I think that all freshmen should take both of the AP English courses that are offered…it helps you so much with writing and analyzing texts and helps you develop your own views on the world. The classes also give a lot of fun projects and discussions during class are never boring.” Bielec said, “I recommend all freshmen to take AP Bio and AP Calculus. In regards to AP Calc, it is necessary to take because all[many] students will have to take Calc in college.” So, consider your future major and what basic classes in your field you might get a head start on. AP Government and English seem like classes that can help you in your future, no matter what path you decide to take.
“Is there an AP class you didn’t take that you wish you had taken?”
Batton said, “I wish I had taken AP Comp Sci because it always sounded like a cool and interesting class; I just never had available space in my schedule to try and take it.” Bielec said, “AP Stats. I enjoy math classes and think that stats could come in handy in future jobs, especially since I plan on doing computer science.” Know yourself and follow your interests. Taking classes you’re passionate about will insure you don’t waste your time but instead do your best in the classes you take.
“How many AP’s would you say are too many to take in a single school year?”
Batton said, “If you are taking more than four AP classes in one year, then that is probably too many… you still want to have time for things outside of school, like sports, and also time to decompress.” If you plan on taking any significant number of AP classes in future years, remember Fadele’s words: “Many people don’t have the discipline to consistently produce good, quality work for each class because of the time each AP class requires. However, if you know yourself and are aware of what’s on your plate, I say go for it!”
Considering all the advice that was shared, hopefully you learned more about AP classes and what you will decide to do for the next three years and beyond! Here are some final words of advice: “Enjoy the process of learning!” – Tomi Fadele. “Still have time for yourself” – Ian Batton. “AP classes are nothing to be afraid of!” – Michael Bielec.