2 answers
Andrea
Student
La Ceiba, Atlántida Department, Honduras
3
Questions
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AP classes for degrees
If my school doesn't have an AP classes that apply to what I want to study (engineering), what can I do instead? Do I still take the APs?
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2 answers
Brendon Perkins
Human Resources
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Brendon’s Answer
Even if your school doesn't offer relevant AP classes, I would recommend considering some other AP options that may be related or that you are interested in. Many colleges and future employers are looking for people who are interested in challenging themselves, looking for ways to grow and develop and showing curiousity. Of course, AP classes aren't the only way to do this, but they certainly show a willingness to challenge yourself. You don't need to overdue it by taking every class that is offered, but choose one or two that sound more interesting to you and could help you become well rounded in your studies.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Andrea
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
313
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
This is an excellent question, Andrea.
Even if there are not APs on Engineering, there may be relevant ones. According to the College Board (see link below), these would include Precalculus, Calculus, Environmental Science, and Physics. The College Vine list also includes Statistics and Computer Science Are you saying that your school does not offer any of these?
If not, this information should be included in guidance counselor notes that go to all colleges to which students apply. So individual students are not penalized for failing to take these AP classes. I am not familiar with the Honduran educational system, but in the US, students may be able to take the equivalent of an AP course at a local community college and then take the exam. This allows them to take more advanced classes in college faster and sometimes graduate earlier.
As for other subjects, taking AP courses demonstrates intellectual curiosity and your willingness to challenge yourself academically. So, generally, I would recommend taking at least one AP course, if it is offered to you. But you are not expected to sacrifice your health. If no relevant AP course is available, and the available AP courses are too difficult or would add too much to your existing workload, you do not have to take them.
Good luck!
College Board - https://blog.collegeboard.org/ap-courses-majors-and-careers#:~:text=In%20AP%20courses%20like%20AP,used%20in%20engineering%2Drelated%20careers.
College Vine - https://blog.collegevine.com/ap-classes-for-engineering
Even if there are not APs on Engineering, there may be relevant ones. According to the College Board (see link below), these would include Precalculus, Calculus, Environmental Science, and Physics. The College Vine list also includes Statistics and Computer Science Are you saying that your school does not offer any of these?
If not, this information should be included in guidance counselor notes that go to all colleges to which students apply. So individual students are not penalized for failing to take these AP classes. I am not familiar with the Honduran educational system, but in the US, students may be able to take the equivalent of an AP course at a local community college and then take the exam. This allows them to take more advanced classes in college faster and sometimes graduate earlier.
As for other subjects, taking AP courses demonstrates intellectual curiosity and your willingness to challenge yourself academically. So, generally, I would recommend taking at least one AP course, if it is offered to you. But you are not expected to sacrifice your health. If no relevant AP course is available, and the available AP courses are too difficult or would add too much to your existing workload, you do not have to take them.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
This was super helpful, thank you!
Andrea