Question

Is taking an advance placement classes worth the trouble?

Let me explain:
I was offered AP Chemistry, and AP Physics.
I was planning to take just AP Physics, this coming year. But my counselor says it is best for me to take AP Chemistry and AP Physics, in the same year.
But I would think it would be too much... Plus I most students take Chemistry then AP Chemistry.
So what would be a better pair?
Take AP Chemistry and AP Physics in the same year?
Or just take, AP Physics and regular Chemistry?

Answer 1

My main concern is time.
I am already busy, with multiple jobs and such... And I can't drive so my dad has to take me to PSEO. I just don't think I could handle all of the work the AP Chemistry class would give, but I am willing to take the AP Chemistry class, if it would help me get into a good college. (I can take the AP Chemistry class next year too. Same for the AP Physics. So any advice?)

Answer 2

OpCode: Many colleges are getting disenchanted with APs. APs alone don't swing the vote. If you are busy and things are complex, and you have multiple jobs, I suggest you take only one AP, and focus on good grades in what you are doing, and showing how multitalented you are. The work experience counts a lot. The grades count a lot. And you have to do well in the SAT. HAving said all this, colleges differ in how they evaluate people. In some, its only about the numbers. SAT/GPA. IN others its about APs, letters, personal statement, achievements etc. I am sure with good grades and with good SATs you will get into a good college. (-:

Answer 3

Oppy, this is my view: APs look amazing. What's even better is the AP tests.
But if taking the new class will be to the detriment of your other assets, like grade point average (GPA) and your SAT score, it's not worth taking another one.

+ It's already awesome that you're taking some.

Are you doing volunteer work ? Are you doing a lot of extra-curricular activities ? "special talents" count now quite a bit in the admissions process now, as they're so many people who do really well academically now.

What @Preetha said is really accurate, except (in my opinion), many people take APs, and since they're college level, the universities love when you take some.
If you think you can still have a great GPA after adding all this stuff, yes, it's worth it.