7 answers
Julianna
Student
Bellaire, Texas
1
Question
Updated
2857 views
Which one would benefit me more, taking 4 years of piano (Honors during 11th and 12th) and German (AP from 10th, 11th, 12th) or taking one out and doing another AP Class (Seminar, Psych, or Business Management) for my 10th grade year(Interested In Medical Field)?
Should I continue with 4 years of piano through high school or 4 years of German? I am a freshman choosing my courses for next year and I do not know whether to continue both piano and German (I already have the required credits for both) or take another AP Class (I was thinking of AP Psych or AP Seminar). I only have two more electives to choose since I have tennis 7th period and was planning on doing that for all through high school since I'm on varsity. My other classes are Pre-ap Chem, AP World History, AP Pre-calc, and Pre-ap English 2. Which classes would benefit me more in the future and on college applications if I'm interested in the medical field?(specifically neurology or dermatology)
7 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Ooooh, Julianna, you’re on FIRE with these courses! 🔥✨
First of all—huge props for even thinking about all this as a freshman! Like, you’re out here strategizing your entire academic future while some people are just trying to remember their locker combo. ICONIC behavior. Love to see it.
Also, shoutout to Michelle—she gave some really solid advice, and I’m definitely vibing with a lot of what she said. But I wanna sprinkle in some extra spice and break it all down so you can REALLY see what makes sense for you.
---
German vs. Piano vs. APs – The Showdown 🎹🇩🇪📚
1️⃣ Should you take 4 years of both Piano and German?
So, you’ve already met the credit requirements for both… which means you’re not obligated to keep going unless you actually love them or see a purpose for them in your future.
Piano:
🎵 Super cool skill, great for personal development, and hey—it looks nice on apps if you’re heavily involved (competitions, performances, leadership in a music club). But if it’s just casual playing and you’re not planning to major in music, you could drop it and still be fine. Like, I play guitar, but you don’t see me trying to be the next Jimi Hendrix—it's just for fun, a little jam session here and there. 🎸 But do I regret keeping it in my life? HECK No. Uhum🤫.
Same goes for piano. If you love it and it’s something that makes you happy, keep it! If you’re just grinding through it because you feel like you have to, then maybe it’s time to free those fingers and use that spot for something else.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what YOU value. If playing piano makes you feel like a total musical genius and it’s your escape from school stress, then stick with it! But if it’s just kinda meh, then no harm in letting it go. Your schedule = your rules.
For, 🇩🇪 AP German could help if you think you might need a foreign language in your future career (like if you ever wanted to study abroad or work in international medicine). But for a U.S.-based medical path, foreign language isn’t a requirement.
Julianna I love learning different languages, but my career choice evolves future journeying because I want to go travel around to help people in the future, that's why I would like to enhance my languages on free times. What I can say just an opinion is that as a Dr. You will be invited to many conferences, seminars, presentations, programs by different countries and organizations as you grow.
OHHH! Imagine rolling up to a big medical conference in Germany, all these fancy doctors in suits, and BOOM—you hit them with:
Keine Sorge, ich bin Arzt! (Don’t worry, I’m a doctor!) 😎
OR even better...
Ja, ich spreche Deutsch! Aber nur, wenn ich genug Kaffee hatte. (Yes, I speak German! But only if I’ve had enough coffee.) ☕😂
Honestly, having German in your back pocket could be such a power move. Medicine is global, and German is HUGE in science and research. Plus, if you ever wanted to do an internship, research project, or residency abroad, you’d have an automatic edge.
So yeah—AP German might not be necessary for pre-med, but it’s definitely a flex and could open up some cool opportunities in the future. Surprising people with fluent German at a conference? ICONIC.
Alrightie so, if you’re genuinely passionate about both, keep them! If not, drop one and make room for a more useful AP.
What AP class would be best for a medical career?
Since you’re eyeing neurology or dermatology, the BEST APs for you are ones that build strong critical thinking, science, and communication skills. Let’s break down your options:
AP Psych 🧠 (HELLO, neurology!)
🔹 If you’re remotely interested in how the brain works (which, uhh, neurology), AP Psych is a GREAT choice! It introduces you to neuroscience, cognition, and behavior, all of which are relevant to medicine.
AP Seminar 💡 (Fancy research & presentations)
🔹 This is part of the AP Capstone program, and it’s great for developing research skills, which will 100% help in medical school. If you’re into writing, debating, and digging deep into topics, it’s a strong choice.
AP Business Management 💼 (Not super relevant for pre-med)
🔹 If you’re thinking of running your own practice one day, this could be mildly helpful, but honestly, you can always pick up business skills later. Not a priority for now.
So, so, If I had to pick one for You, I’d go with AP Psych since it ties directly into neurology! If you’re really into research, AP Seminar is also solid. Remember it's your decision your passion Julianna!
What will colleges love the most?
Colleges don’t just want a lot of APs—they want to see strategic choices that align with your interests. Also as Michelle mentioned it is best you decide which college you are planning to go and what they need.
Keeping German? That’s cool, but make sure you take the AP exam so it actually stands out.
Dropping piano? Totally fine, unless you’re deeply involved.
Picking AP Psych or Seminar? Now we’re talking. Both show depth and connect to your medical interests.
What else can boost your pre-med journey? Besides classes, here’s where you can really stand out:
🔹 Volunteer in healthcare settings – Hospitals, clinics, mental health centers… anything that shows you’re serious about medicine.
🔹 Shadow a doctor – Especially a neurologist or dermatologist! It’ll give you a head start on understanding the field.
🔹 Join science/medical clubs – HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), Science Olympiad, or a research-based club would be a chef’s kiss addition.
Finally still wondering – What should you do?
Will just add this: Best path for pre-med which I can just recommend at end it is your choice and love, remember that! (neurology/derm):
✅ AP Psych or AP Seminar
✅ Keep either German OR Piano (not both unless you love them)
✅ Stay on varsity tennis (sports show commitment & leadership!)
✅ Look for health-related extracurriculars
Julianna, you are CRUSHING IT already! 🏆
The fact that you’re this thoughtful about your schedule means you’re gonna thrive in the medical world. You got this, and whatever you choose, you’re on the right track. Go be amazing! 💥❤️ All the best and good luck future awesomeness!
First of all—huge props for even thinking about all this as a freshman! Like, you’re out here strategizing your entire academic future while some people are just trying to remember their locker combo. ICONIC behavior. Love to see it.
Also, shoutout to Michelle—she gave some really solid advice, and I’m definitely vibing with a lot of what she said. But I wanna sprinkle in some extra spice and break it all down so you can REALLY see what makes sense for you.
---
German vs. Piano vs. APs – The Showdown 🎹🇩🇪📚
1️⃣ Should you take 4 years of both Piano and German?
So, you’ve already met the credit requirements for both… which means you’re not obligated to keep going unless you actually love them or see a purpose for them in your future.
Piano:
🎵 Super cool skill, great for personal development, and hey—it looks nice on apps if you’re heavily involved (competitions, performances, leadership in a music club). But if it’s just casual playing and you’re not planning to major in music, you could drop it and still be fine. Like, I play guitar, but you don’t see me trying to be the next Jimi Hendrix—it's just for fun, a little jam session here and there. 🎸 But do I regret keeping it in my life? HECK No. Uhum🤫.
Same goes for piano. If you love it and it’s something that makes you happy, keep it! If you’re just grinding through it because you feel like you have to, then maybe it’s time to free those fingers and use that spot for something else.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what YOU value. If playing piano makes you feel like a total musical genius and it’s your escape from school stress, then stick with it! But if it’s just kinda meh, then no harm in letting it go. Your schedule = your rules.
For, 🇩🇪 AP German could help if you think you might need a foreign language in your future career (like if you ever wanted to study abroad or work in international medicine). But for a U.S.-based medical path, foreign language isn’t a requirement.
Julianna I love learning different languages, but my career choice evolves future journeying because I want to go travel around to help people in the future, that's why I would like to enhance my languages on free times. What I can say just an opinion is that as a Dr. You will be invited to many conferences, seminars, presentations, programs by different countries and organizations as you grow.
OHHH! Imagine rolling up to a big medical conference in Germany, all these fancy doctors in suits, and BOOM—you hit them with:
Keine Sorge, ich bin Arzt! (Don’t worry, I’m a doctor!) 😎
OR even better...
Ja, ich spreche Deutsch! Aber nur, wenn ich genug Kaffee hatte. (Yes, I speak German! But only if I’ve had enough coffee.) ☕😂
Honestly, having German in your back pocket could be such a power move. Medicine is global, and German is HUGE in science and research. Plus, if you ever wanted to do an internship, research project, or residency abroad, you’d have an automatic edge.
So yeah—AP German might not be necessary for pre-med, but it’s definitely a flex and could open up some cool opportunities in the future. Surprising people with fluent German at a conference? ICONIC.
Alrightie so, if you’re genuinely passionate about both, keep them! If not, drop one and make room for a more useful AP.
What AP class would be best for a medical career?
Since you’re eyeing neurology or dermatology, the BEST APs for you are ones that build strong critical thinking, science, and communication skills. Let’s break down your options:
AP Psych 🧠 (HELLO, neurology!)
🔹 If you’re remotely interested in how the brain works (which, uhh, neurology), AP Psych is a GREAT choice! It introduces you to neuroscience, cognition, and behavior, all of which are relevant to medicine.
AP Seminar 💡 (Fancy research & presentations)
🔹 This is part of the AP Capstone program, and it’s great for developing research skills, which will 100% help in medical school. If you’re into writing, debating, and digging deep into topics, it’s a strong choice.
AP Business Management 💼 (Not super relevant for pre-med)
🔹 If you’re thinking of running your own practice one day, this could be mildly helpful, but honestly, you can always pick up business skills later. Not a priority for now.
So, so, If I had to pick one for You, I’d go with AP Psych since it ties directly into neurology! If you’re really into research, AP Seminar is also solid. Remember it's your decision your passion Julianna!
What will colleges love the most?
Colleges don’t just want a lot of APs—they want to see strategic choices that align with your interests. Also as Michelle mentioned it is best you decide which college you are planning to go and what they need.
Keeping German? That’s cool, but make sure you take the AP exam so it actually stands out.
Dropping piano? Totally fine, unless you’re deeply involved.
Picking AP Psych or Seminar? Now we’re talking. Both show depth and connect to your medical interests.
What else can boost your pre-med journey? Besides classes, here’s where you can really stand out:
🔹 Volunteer in healthcare settings – Hospitals, clinics, mental health centers… anything that shows you’re serious about medicine.
🔹 Shadow a doctor – Especially a neurologist or dermatologist! It’ll give you a head start on understanding the field.
🔹 Join science/medical clubs – HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), Science Olympiad, or a research-based club would be a chef’s kiss addition.
Finally still wondering – What should you do?
Will just add this: Best path for pre-med which I can just recommend at end it is your choice and love, remember that! (neurology/derm):
✅ AP Psych or AP Seminar
✅ Keep either German OR Piano (not both unless you love them)
✅ Stay on varsity tennis (sports show commitment & leadership!)
✅ Look for health-related extracurriculars
Julianna, you are CRUSHING IT already! 🏆
The fact that you’re this thoughtful about your schedule means you’re gonna thrive in the medical world. You got this, and whatever you choose, you’re on the right track. Go be amazing! 💥❤️ All the best and good luck future awesomeness!
Michelle M.
Actress
2299
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Julianna !
I am happy to know that you are interested in becoming a medical doctor with a specialty ! That is super awesome.
If I were your guidance counselor, my first question for you would be: What college do you plan to attend for your Bachelors Degree ? When you know that, you may be able to know which courses to take. Also, it's hard to say which college courses will be required for medical school if you don't know which medical school you would be attending and if it will be in Texas or out of State. The advice I will give you is very, very general, but you'll need to consult with your guidance counselor as well as the college you plan to apply to for your Bachelors Degree. My advice is general and based on thinking towards medical school for the high school and university courses.
I do not recommend taking the German and Piano at all. You can learn piano by taking private lessons and you can learn German online if you really want to, but in high school, you should focus on the high school level human sciences. That would be if your high school offers Biology, Anatomy, Chemistry, Health Science and in addition, Psychology. If you take consecutive years of human sciences, it will provide you with a good foundation for college.
That being said, it's more important to know what you should take in college for a career in medicine before Medical School. While you are in college, most medical schools require that applicants have had one or more college courses in Biology with a Lab, a Chemistry with a Lab, one or more Physics courses. Some Medical Schools require Mathematics courses, English courses with an emphasis on Writing and courses in Psychology and Sociology at the University level. Again, this is very generalized and not geared to you because you'd have to know which university you'd be applying to and which Medical School you'd be applying to. These are just basic courses that most colleges and Medical Schools expect for the career you're aiming for.
Since no one can actually tell you what your future college will require for admissions since you don't know yet which college it will be, focus on maintaining your good grades and doing volunteer work. All colleges take that into consideration for admissions. Your grades will reflect your GPA and showing ambition and skill development through volunteer work will be a boost to your applications.
For volunteer work, since you are aiming for medical school, great places to volunteer would be at your local town or city Health Department, local Hospitals (even if you don't volunteer with patients), mental health clinics or any other health related place. It will provide you with an enriching experience and is not only to have for college applications. You'll learn a lot through volunteering.
So think about which universities you want to apply to, look them up online and read their websites to know what is expected for admissions. Focus on human sciences in high school and continue with tennis. Always verify online advice with your guidance counselor before taking any steps for what classes to take. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best in your studies and with your tennis matches !
I am happy to know that you are interested in becoming a medical doctor with a specialty ! That is super awesome.
If I were your guidance counselor, my first question for you would be: What college do you plan to attend for your Bachelors Degree ? When you know that, you may be able to know which courses to take. Also, it's hard to say which college courses will be required for medical school if you don't know which medical school you would be attending and if it will be in Texas or out of State. The advice I will give you is very, very general, but you'll need to consult with your guidance counselor as well as the college you plan to apply to for your Bachelors Degree. My advice is general and based on thinking towards medical school for the high school and university courses.
I do not recommend taking the German and Piano at all. You can learn piano by taking private lessons and you can learn German online if you really want to, but in high school, you should focus on the high school level human sciences. That would be if your high school offers Biology, Anatomy, Chemistry, Health Science and in addition, Psychology. If you take consecutive years of human sciences, it will provide you with a good foundation for college.
That being said, it's more important to know what you should take in college for a career in medicine before Medical School. While you are in college, most medical schools require that applicants have had one or more college courses in Biology with a Lab, a Chemistry with a Lab, one or more Physics courses. Some Medical Schools require Mathematics courses, English courses with an emphasis on Writing and courses in Psychology and Sociology at the University level. Again, this is very generalized and not geared to you because you'd have to know which university you'd be applying to and which Medical School you'd be applying to. These are just basic courses that most colleges and Medical Schools expect for the career you're aiming for.
Since no one can actually tell you what your future college will require for admissions since you don't know yet which college it will be, focus on maintaining your good grades and doing volunteer work. All colleges take that into consideration for admissions. Your grades will reflect your GPA and showing ambition and skill development through volunteer work will be a boost to your applications.
For volunteer work, since you are aiming for medical school, great places to volunteer would be at your local town or city Health Department, local Hospitals (even if you don't volunteer with patients), mental health clinics or any other health related place. It will provide you with an enriching experience and is not only to have for college applications. You'll learn a lot through volunteering.
So think about which universities you want to apply to, look them up online and read their websites to know what is expected for admissions. Focus on human sciences in high school and continue with tennis. Always verify online advice with your guidance counselor before taking any steps for what classes to take. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best in your studies and with your tennis matches !
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
For those interested in the medical field, keeping both Piano and German in high school can be beneficial. Piano shows dedication, discipline, and creativity, while German language skills are beneficial for international work. Leaving one class for another AP class in 10th grade can enhance research, writing, and critical thinking, while AP Psychology provides insight into human behavior. AP Business Management could be beneficial for hospital administration or healthcare management. The best choice for pre-med is keeping both Piano and German, as they show long-term commitment. If you prefer a more academically rigorous path, replacing Piano with AP Seminar or AP Psychology could strengthen your pre-med preparation. If German is a passion or potential career asset, keeping it is recommended, but swapping for an AP class might be more strategic.
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
To build a strong college application for a medical field like neurology or dermatology, consider the following options:
1. Choose 4 years of Piano + 4 years of German. Piano is great for cognitive skills and adds uniqueness to your application. It is not directly relevant to medicine but adds uniqueness.
2. Drop one (piano or German) for another AP class. Dropping one allows space for another AP class (AP Seminar, AP Psych, or AP Business). AP Seminar is a strong choice if you plan to take AP Research next, developing critical thinking, research, and writing skills. AP Psychology is relevant to neurology and can show early interest in brain sciences.
If you want a stronger medical/science focus, drop piano or German and take AP Psych (neurology-related) or AP Seminar (research-heavy). The most strategic choice for pre-med is to keep AP German (strong for language & rigor), drop Piano (unless you love it), and take AP Seminar or AP Psych (boosts your medical profile).
In summary, the most strategic choice for a medical application is to choose between 4 years of Piano + 4 years of AP German, which adds uniqueness and adds uniqueness to your application.
1. Choose 4 years of Piano + 4 years of German. Piano is great for cognitive skills and adds uniqueness to your application. It is not directly relevant to medicine but adds uniqueness.
2. Drop one (piano or German) for another AP class. Dropping one allows space for another AP class (AP Seminar, AP Psych, or AP Business). AP Seminar is a strong choice if you plan to take AP Research next, developing critical thinking, research, and writing skills. AP Psychology is relevant to neurology and can show early interest in brain sciences.
If you want a stronger medical/science focus, drop piano or German and take AP Psych (neurology-related) or AP Seminar (research-heavy). The most strategic choice for pre-med is to keep AP German (strong for language & rigor), drop Piano (unless you love it), and take AP Seminar or AP Psych (boosts your medical profile).
In summary, the most strategic choice for a medical application is to choose between 4 years of Piano + 4 years of AP German, which adds uniqueness and adds uniqueness to your application.
Gladys "GG" Siebert
Administrative Assistant
8
Answers
Newfoundland, Pennsylvania
Updated
Gladys "GG"’s Answer
I can tell you that a top Harvard graduate anesthesiologist who is now specializing in pain management with his own practice (this is what you can do with as an anesthesiologist) who I work with got his start on a music scholarship. While the other AP class can be beneficial, the arts are still very important especially if you enjoy it. I speak fluent Spanish and I can’t tell you how helpful it’s been in my career. Hope this helps.
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
112
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Julianna,
It's great that you are planning so much for the future. I would say choose which of those you are interested in. Neither seem to directly align with your goal becoming a Doctor which is actually a great thing. This means they are interests of yours so I would say to pursue which interests you more. Also I would say now is the time to explore the potential in both. Maybe take them both at the same time if possible to see which you want to stick with. I think both are great options and pursuing things you're passionate in now will only help your application as you apply for medical school in the future.
It's great that you are planning so much for the future. I would say choose which of those you are interested in. Neither seem to directly align with your goal becoming a Doctor which is actually a great thing. This means they are interests of yours so I would say to pursue which interests you more. Also I would say now is the time to explore the potential in both. Maybe take them both at the same time if possible to see which you want to stick with. I think both are great options and pursuing things you're passionate in now will only help your application as you apply for medical school in the future.
Marylou DiFilippo
Actor, Teacher
65
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marylou’s Answer
Wonderful for you!
My son is a fantastic pianist. Played Carnegie Hall, his own composition when he was 12. His college degree was in Jazz/piano performance. Top of his class.
He’s now a lawyer. It’s amazing what skills in music can help in so many other fields. (Music involves math. Presentation, Collaboration. Delivery…)
Just keep on playing, and “Follow your bliss “. Joseph Campbell. Check him out.
My son is a fantastic pianist. Played Carnegie Hall, his own composition when he was 12. His college degree was in Jazz/piano performance. Top of his class.
He’s now a lawyer. It’s amazing what skills in music can help in so many other fields. (Music involves math. Presentation, Collaboration. Delivery…)
Just keep on playing, and “Follow your bliss “. Joseph Campbell. Check him out.
Delete Comment
Flag Comment