Advice for Junior Year Course Selection
Hey everyone! I’m preparing for my junior year course selection next week, and I’m feeling a bit uncertain about my options. I’m considering taking AP U.S. History and AP Language, along with AP Human Geography and Psychology as electives, instead of opting for a study hall like I have in previous years. Do you think this might be too much to handle? Would it be wiser to take a study hall instead of an additional AP class? I haven’t taken any AP courses in my freshman or sophomore years, so I’m feeling the pressure to fit them in now. Any advice would be appreciated!
It sounds like you’re putting a lot of thought into your junior year course selection, which is great! Taking both APUSH and AP Lang is a solid choice, as those subjects can really help you develop critical thinking and writing skills. Adding AP Human Geography and AP Psych as electives can definitely give you a competitive edge, but it’s important to keep in mind the overall workload.
Since you haven’t taken AP classes in your earlier years, it might be wise to ease into the rigor of AP courses. AP classes can be quite demanding, and it’s crucial to find a balance that still allows you to maintain a healthy school-life balance, enjoy your extracurriculars, and prepare for college.
Consider a few things before making your decision:
1. Self-Assessment: Do you feel confident in your ability to manage the coursework, especially if you have extracurricular commitments?
2. Workload: Reflect on how you handled your classes in the past. If you often felt overwhelmed, it might be better to stick with a study hall.
3. College Goals: Think about why you want to take these AP classes. If it’s to strengthen your college applications, make sure you’re not sacrificing your mental health or grades in the process.
4. Seek Advice: Talk to teachers, guidance counselors, or students who have taken these courses. They can provide insight into the workload and help you make a more informed choice.
Ultimately, selecting the right mix of courses should challenge you while still being manageable. If you feel uncertain, you might find that having a study hall could be a good way to maintain balance while still allowing time to explore AP classes in your senior year. Good luck!