Navigating Course Selection for STEM Majors in College: AP Chem vs. APES
As a rising high school junior interested in pursuing a science-related major in college, you have a variety of advanced placement (AP) courses to choose from. Among the AP classes you are taking are AP Chemistry, AP Language and Composition, AP U.S. History (APUSH), and honors math and Spanish courses. You are wondering whether it would be better to drop AP Chemistry to take AP Environmental Science (APES) in your senior year. This article will help you understand the impact of such a decision on your college application.
Impact of AP Chemistry on College Applications
Given your current course load and future plans, AP Chemistry (AP Chem) can certainly benefit your college application. Many colleges and universities in the United States expect students to take challenging science courses, such as AP Chemistry, during their senior year. This courses demonstrates a commitment to academic rigor and prepares you for the scientific and mathematical demands of college-level coursework.
However, it is also important to consider your overall course selection for senior year. Planning ahead to take AP Calculus BC along with either AP Physics or AP Chemistry is recommended. It is generally advisable not to take both science courses in the same year, as this can be a considerable workload. Discuss with your guidance counselor the possibility of taking dual credit courses, which can also help you earn college credit before graduation.
Impact of APES on College Applications
Since you are already planning to take APES in your senior year, it is natural to wonder if dropping AP Chem to take it would be a bad choice. APES focuses on environmental science, policies, and sustainability, providing valuable knowledge and skills in the context of the environment. While AP Chem can be more challenging, it is still a critical component of a well-rounded STEM curriculum. Your choice of which course to take a particular year may not be as crucial as overall academic performance and commitment to challenging coursework.
Consider whether APES aligns more with your interests and career goals. If environmental science and sustainability are areas that excite you and you are already well-prepared in chemistry, it might be a good decision to take APES. Ultimately, the selection of courses should reflect your long-term academic and career aspirations.
Advice for College Application
College admission committees take various factors into consideration when evaluating applicants, including your grade point average (GPA), SAT or ACT scores, extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. A switch in a course schedule prior to the school year typically will not impact your application negatively, as long as you maintain a strong academic performance and continue to demonstrate your commitment to challenging coursework.
It is important to remember that honesty and ethical behavior are key components of your college application. Focus on doing well in your current courses and maintaining a positive academic record. This will greatly benefit your college applications and prepare you for the challenges of higher education.