Advice From An Upperclassman

Are AP Classes worth it?….

  That depends. AP classes are only worth it if you pass the AP exams or not. If regular classes are not advanced enough for you, by all means, join AP, but if you’re not planning on passing the exams or not taking them then you won’t get college credit. Getting more college credit means you can potentially graduate early and finish your general ed. (which is required)

Any classes over the summer?… 

No one wants to take classes over the summer but for the sake of making your year in school easier, here’s what I would recommend. Health is required but also only one semester. To prevent messing up your schedule, just getting it done over the summer would be easier. Another class I recommend is the required VAPA class, for example, piano. The more classes you get out of your way, the more chances you can have a free period in your senior year. That free period can be used to get to school later in the day to prevent tardiness or to get out early if you have a job that could be really helpful. 

Advice for the future…

Classes I would recommend starting in the sophomore year are the two required language classes. Starting as a sophomore can ensure that when you’re a senior, a language class is not required. This opens up a spot for a free period or another class that might be needed. You can also have an opportunity to take language in the third year which is something colleges look for. AP classes are always a recommended option but don’t wait till junior year to start taking AP classes because as the grade goes up, your load of work and stress goes up. Start taking AP classes in the sophomore year so you can get used to the curriculum. If you do plan on taking AVID make sure to join sophomore or freshman year because AVID is a four-year class, and you don’t want to join a class that’s already a set community.