Is IB Worth It?
As a freshman in the IB program at my school, I’ve been reflecting on my experience. I transferred to this school because my local high school wasn’t great, and this was the only one that offered transportation. Unfortunately, anyone who transfers must commit to the IB program—if you fail or drop out, you go back to your home school. At first, I didn’t mind being in IB; the classes felt similar to me, and I managed to get mostly A’s, with just one B.
However, I’ve had some reservations. I’m not a big fan of having to take a language course and complete service hours. Recently, I spoke with a senior who claimed that IB is a huge time investment that doesn’t really pay off in the long run. He suggested that I consider staying at the school but opt out of the IB program, possibly pursuing dual enrollment for college credits instead.
I’m torn about what to do. If I drop out of IB and can’t stay at this school, I’d have to go back to my old high school, which I really don’t want to do. For now, I’ve decided to stay in IB through 10th grade to complete the MYP program, and then I’ll decide between the CP and DP paths.
What do you think I should do?
It’s understandable to feel uncertain about your path, especially with the pressures and challenges that come with the IB program. Here are a few points to consider:
Weighing the Benefits: The IB program is known for its rigor and can be beneficial for college admissions, as it demonstrates your ability to handle challenging coursework. It can also provide you with skills like critical thinking and time management. However, it’s important to consider whether those benefits align with your personal and academic goals.
Dual Enrollment: Dual enrollment can be a great option if you’re looking to earn college credits while still in high school. It might give you more freedom to explore subjects you’re passionate about and can help you build a stronger academic profile for college applications. Just make sure that if you decide to pursue this option, it aligns with the requirements of your desired colleges.
Talk to Advisors: Before making a decision, it might be worth talking to a school counselor or an academic advisor at your school. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation and help you understand the implications of switching to dual enrollment versus sticking with IB.
Reflect on Your Interests: Think about what subjects you enjoy and what your future goals are. If your primary interest lies in fields that value the type of education IB provides, it may still be worth continuing. If you prefer a different approach to learning, then dual enrollment could be a better fit.
Consider Your Current Situation: If you’d be unhappy going back to your home school, that’s a significant factor. The social and academic environment can greatly impact your overall high school experience.
Ultimately, you’re the best judge of what will serve you best. It’s great that you’re already looking ahead to your options in 10th grade. Take your time to explore what feels right for you, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from those who understand your unique circumstances. Good luck!