Should I take the Newspaper class?
It seems like a challenging course—everyone I’ve talked to says it’s tough, and just looking at the application form gives me that impression too. But as I’m approaching my senior year, I feel like I haven’t accomplished much during my time in high school. This class offers so many great opportunities.
Pros: Not only will I be writing editorials and interviewing peers, but I can also explore podcasting on various topics, engage in photography, create quizzes, and work on a variety of multimedia projects. Plus, getting accepted means automatically joining an honors society. I have a passion for writing, and this class could really help me unleash my creativity.
Cons: However, the fact that you can’t drop the class really terrifies me. It’s a year-long commitment, and I’m worried about dedicating myself to something I might end up disliking. The class is student-led, which means there’s minimal guidance from the teacher and my work will be edited by my peers (like the chief editors). That’s pretty nerve-wracking for me. To earn honors credit, I’ll need to apply for an editor position, but to make room for this class, I’d have to drop two of my “fun senior year electives.” This class doesn’t even count as an English credit since I’m already taking AP Literature.
On top of all that, I’ll need recommendations from both an English teacher and a non-English teacher. This would be easier if my current AP Language teacher, who is also the class advisor, didn’t know about my struggles—right now, I have a low B. If she doesn’t give me a positive recommendation, I’ll feel so embarrassed!
It sounds like you’re really weighing the pros and cons of taking the Newspaper class, and that’s completely understandable! It seems like it could be an incredible opportunity to express your creativity and hone your writing skills, especially since you mentioned your love for writing. The multimedia aspects, like making podcasts and doing photography, could also be a really fun way to explore different forms of storytelling.
However, I totally get why the commitment and structure of the class are daunting. Not being able to drop it can feel like a big risk, especially since it’s a year-long commitment and you want to enjoy your senior year. The student-led nature might also add pressure, but it could be a chance to collaborate with peers and learn from each other, even if that’s nerve-racking.
Regarding the teacher recommendation, I think it’s worth having a conversation with your AP Lang teacher about your concerns. You might be surprised by her response. Teachers often want to see their students grow, and she may recognize your potential even if your current grade isn’t what you’d hoped for. Maybe she could provide some guidance or support, regardless of her role as the advisor.
In the end, consider what aligns with your interests and goals. If the thought of this class excites you more than it scares you, it might be worth taking the plunge. Whatever you decide, remember that your senior year should be a time for both growth and enjoyment! Good luck!