Malina
Does taking challenging courses in high school actually pay off?
Initially, when I began taking accelerated courses --which evolved into Honors programs and AP classes-- my goal was to complete most necessary classes so that by senior year I could go home after fourth period. Now here I am, at that aspired goal of checked off credits and possessing the capability to do just that, and instead I am filling my schedule to the brim with more unnecessary classes because "it looks better on transcripts" and "it's what colleges like" and "it'll help me in the long run". What I want to know is: will it really? Will having more than enough credits actually benefit me in college? Will I actually get out of taking certain classes, thereby allowing me to focus more on my major? Or is it all a hoax?
#college #credits #highschool #classes #high-school-classes
4 answers
Emily Johncox
Emily’s Answer
I took 15 AP classes in high school, and I HIGHLY recommend taking them whenever you can. Here's why: 1. Taking AP classes gives you a good foundation for your college education. Even if you end up repeating you introductory class in college, having the advanced background will be immensely helpful!
2. If you score a 4 or 5, your college may allow you to skip the course. This may help you graduate early!
3. Some colleges prioritize registration for courses based on academic credit. So, if you come in with more credits, you'll be able to register before your peers! Avoid 8AM classes.
4. Some colleges require you to take an SAT subject test to apply. These will be really hard to do well on if you haven't taken an AP course. Take APs as a junior so you can take the tests as a senior!
Simeon Snow
Simeon’s Answer
G. Mark Stewart
G. Mark’s Answer
Yes. For several reasons.
First, challenging oneself in high school conditions one to be a better studier, more informed, harder-working and more responsible later in life.
Second, challenging courses prepare you for college. Not just for the information itself, but to be prepared for the more intense scholastic load you'll face.
Third, many courses will prepare you with more of exactly the kind of material you'll need in your area of study choice. It'll give you a head start, in other words.
And fourth, there are advanced courses you can take in high school that will give those college admissions folks something to be more impressed by, and give you the nod.
My advice -- it may give you a lesser grade in some instances due to the harder work, but people looking at your transcripts will be more impressed by someone who gives it their "all".
Jordan Trump
Jordan’s Answer
Hello Malina,
Great question! I found myself in your same position while in high school. While all schools differ in the incoming credits that they will accept, I was able to begin my first year of college with a couple of classes already completed. This ultimately allowed me to complete my undergrad degree early, which then allowed me to begin my graduate degree early. By taking those extra classes in high school, I saved myself a lot of time, money, and headache later down the road.
I recommend taking a look at your college's requirements for accepting incoming credits to make sure that all of your extra coursework will transfer over to your college. At a minimum, the extra knowledge will make retaking similar courses in college a lot easier.
Thank you so much! I will be sure to do that!
Malina