Navigating the Dilemma of Balancing Multiple AP Classes

Have you ever considered tackling an immensely demanding academic challenge, particularly those associated with AP (Advanced Placement) classes during your high school years? While the prospect may seem daunting, many students manage to successfully navigate these rigorous academic programs. In this article, we will delve into the experiences of three students who tackled multiple AP classes, providing insights into the challenges and strategies that helped them succeed.

Junior Year: A Harsh Reality

John, a high school junior, took on the formidable task of balancing not only four AP classes (AP Calculus AB, AP Chemistry, Honors Biology, and AP US History) and AP Language and Composition, but also managing extracurricular activities, a part-time job, family commitments, and personal well-being. This year was undoubtedly the most challenging, yet also one of the most rewarding.

As John, he faced a significant amount of work, which required meticulous planning and time management. It was essential to prioritize tasks and set realistic goals. The workload was so substantial that every minute had its purpose, and skipping even a few hours of sleep could significantly impact his performance. John advises students to:
Plan out each activity and task carefully. Utilize help sessions early rather than waiting until it's necessary. Find study buddies who can provide support and accountability. Incorporate feel-good activities into the routine. Stay consistent with sleep, aiming for at least 7 hours every night.

Senior Year: A Lighter Load

Although senior year brought a sense of relief, there were still numerous AP classes to manage. Kate, a senior, took on five AP classes (Calculus BC, Biology, US Government, English Literature and Composition, and Statistics). Instead of taking AP French, she chose to study regular French to focus on learning about French culture rather than the stress of the AP exam. The perception of the workload and the pressure of getting admitted to college significantly eased her senior year.

Surprisingly, Kate reported higher grades during her senior year, with all A’s and A-’s, marking a stark contrast to her previous years when she often received B’s and B-’s. According to her, the stress and distraction of previous years gave way to a more relaxed and enjoyable learning experience. While senioritis played a part, the pressure was significantly reduced, allowing her to appreciate the curriculum without the added stress.

Learning from the Pros: Tips for Success

Kate, a student with a double period class for a medical assistant certification, took on AP Lang and AP Physics 1, finding both easy once the initial learning curve was overcome. She also self-studied a few other APs, stating that AP Physics 1 is simple once you understand the basics, while AP Lang is an easily manageable class. APUSH (United States History) is also straightforward when studied alongside AP World, and AP Stats (Statistics) is simple to self-study. She suggests that taking AP Calculus can be particularly beneficial due to its application in other AP math classes.

Kate's journey highlights the importance of:

Choosing classes based on individual strengths and preferences. Self-study for subjects that fit better into one's schedule. Utilizing the summer to review concepts before the school year begins. Planning and prioritizing effectively.

For students who are considering taking multiple AP classes, Kate advises putting all their efforts into staying focused and avoiding procrastination. Her expert tip is to complete one assignment for every hour you are awake until you have no assignments left, ensuring a well-structured and manageable workload.

Both John and Kate's experiences demonstrate the importance of strategic planning and efficient time management when tackling multiple AP classes. Whether you face the intense challenge of junior year or the lighter load of senior year, these insights can be invaluable as you navigate your academic journey.