AP Classes for Junior Year
I’m currently a sophomore selecting my classes for junior year, and I have five required AP courses: AP Literature, AP Language, AP Precalculus, AP World History, and AP Biology. I’m considering taking AP World History as a dual enrollment course. Additionally, I have the option to pick an extra class, and I’m torn between African American History or AP African American History.
I’d love your advice: Should I go with dual enrollment for any of the courses? Also, do you think it’s wise to take on six AP classes, or should I stick with five given my heavy course load? For context, I’m already enrolled in AP Psychology and AP Government this year, and I took AP US History last year. Thanks!
It sounds like you’re juggling a challenging schedule! Here are a few points to consider when making your decision:
Dual Enrollment vs. AP: Dual enrollment courses can often be more rigorous and may offer college credit upfront, while AP classes rely on passing the exam at the end of the year for college credit. If you’re confident in your ability to succeed in a dual enrollment course and it aligns with your future goals, it could be a smart choice. However, consider whether you prefer the structure of AP classes where you’ll be more familiar with the exam format and content.
Workload: Six AP classes is a significant workload, especially alongside your mandatory classes. It’s crucial to assess whether you can manage the stress and time commitment while also maintaining a good balance with extracurricular activities and personal time. If you’re already feeling stretched with five AP classes, it might be wise to stick with that instead of pushing for a sixth.
Interest and Future Plans: Consider your interest in African American History versus AP African American History. If you’re passionate about the subject, the AP class might be more rewarding and beneficial for your college applications. If it’s less critical to you and you’re looking for a lighter load, the regular dual enrollment class might be a better fit.
Consult Your Counselors: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your school counselor or teachers. They can provide insights into the rigor of these classes at your school and help you gauge what a manageable workload looks like for you personally.
Ultimately, go with what feels right for you and what aligns with your academic and personal goals! Good luck with your decisions!