3 answers
kai
Student
3
Questions
Asked
721 views
Is it still useful to take classes like AP Calculus or AP Physics C if you are not interested in pursuing a stem field ?
I am an 11th grader and thinking about taking precalculus over the summer in order to take one of these classes to challenge myself
Login to comment
3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Kai!
Great question! Even if you’re not heading into a STEM field, taking AP Calculus or AP Physics C can still be super valuable. Colleges love to see students challenge themselves, and these classes can boost your problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and overall academic confidence.
If you enjoy math and want to push yourself, taking Precalculus over the summer to prep for AP Calc could be a solid move. But if it’s just about adding another challenge, you might want to focus on AP courses that align more with what you love. No point in grinding through something if it doesn’t excite you!
At the end of the day, go with what makes you curious and keeps you engaged. A challenge is great, but passion is what really makes learning fun.
Good luck man, all the best! 😎
Great question! Even if you’re not heading into a STEM field, taking AP Calculus or AP Physics C can still be super valuable. Colleges love to see students challenge themselves, and these classes can boost your problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and overall academic confidence.
If you enjoy math and want to push yourself, taking Precalculus over the summer to prep for AP Calc could be a solid move. But if it’s just about adding another challenge, you might want to focus on AP courses that align more with what you love. No point in grinding through something if it doesn’t excite you!
At the end of the day, go with what makes you curious and keeps you engaged. A challenge is great, but passion is what really makes learning fun.
Good luck man, all the best! 😎
Elizabeth Thesing
Engineering
33
Answers
Springfield, Ohio
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Hello Kai!
You're asking a great question here. I think you have a few options to consider.
First, have you completed all your requirements for graduating high school? Will one of those AP classes help fulfill a remaining requirement (such as be your 4th math class, if 4 are required). While the classes will prepare you for college, you do need to be sure you have all your credits needed in the appropriate areas to graduate high school!
Second, assuming you are set for high school requirements, what major do you plan to pursue in college? Maybe one of those classes will be helpful after all - you just need to check the course requirements! Even if it isn't required, you might be able to test out of other requirements using that math or physics scores. I would look into those options at your proposed universities.
Third, you are allowed to take classes that aren't required that you think would be interesting or fun! If you want a challenge and think you'd enjoy it, then go ahead and sign up for it. You don't have to focus solely on requirements.
Good luck with your decision!
You're asking a great question here. I think you have a few options to consider.
First, have you completed all your requirements for graduating high school? Will one of those AP classes help fulfill a remaining requirement (such as be your 4th math class, if 4 are required). While the classes will prepare you for college, you do need to be sure you have all your credits needed in the appropriate areas to graduate high school!
Second, assuming you are set for high school requirements, what major do you plan to pursue in college? Maybe one of those classes will be helpful after all - you just need to check the course requirements! Even if it isn't required, you might be able to test out of other requirements using that math or physics scores. I would look into those options at your proposed universities.
Third, you are allowed to take classes that aren't required that you think would be interesting or fun! If you want a challenge and think you'd enjoy it, then go ahead and sign up for it. You don't have to focus solely on requirements.
Good luck with your decision!
Kristina Du
Enterprise Technology Solutions Associate at PwC
34
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Kristina’s Answer
That’s a great question! Even if you’re not planning to pursue a STEM field, taking challenging courses like AP Calculus or AP Physics C can still be valuable. Colleges like to see students push themselves academically, and strong performance in these classes can boost your application, improve problem-solving skills, and show perseverance.
If you enjoy math and want to challenge yourself, taking Precalculus over the summer to prepare for AP Calculus could be a good move. However, if you feel that these classes might take too much time away from subjects you’re more passionate about, you might want to focus on AP courses in those areas instead. Ultimately, it depends on your goals and what you feel will challenge you while keeping you engaged!
If you enjoy math and want to challenge yourself, taking Precalculus over the summer to prepare for AP Calculus could be a good move. However, if you feel that these classes might take too much time away from subjects you’re more passionate about, you might want to focus on AP courses in those areas instead. Ultimately, it depends on your goals and what you feel will challenge you while keeping you engaged!