The Impact of Advanced High School Courses on College Applications: Honors Algebra 2 vs. AP Computer Science

When it comes to applying to colleges, high school courses play a crucial role in demonstrating your ability to handle academic challenges. The decision between taking an Honors Algebra 2 class and a Regular Algebra 2 class with an AP Computer Science class can significantly affect your college admissions prospects. This article explores the considerations and benefits of each option and recommends the best path forward.

Understanding College Admissions Requirements

Colleges seek students who have challenged themselves academically. They look for a rigorous curriculum that showcases your capability to handle difficult coursework. Here are some key considerations:

Honors Algebra 2

Pros:

Shows your willingness to challenge yourself in mathematics. Crucial for STEM fields, where a strong foundation in math is essential.

Cons:

Your school's availability for advanced courses might limit your options. Not every college might prioritize advanced math courses over AP courses.

Regular Algebra 2 with AP Computer Science

Pros:

AP Computer Science is particularly impressive for technology, computer science, or engineering-related fields. Highlights your engagement with advanced material and ability to handle AP coursework rigor.

Cons:

Forcing oneself to take a difficult course that isn't aligned with future goals can be stressful. Proper preparation and interest in the subject are crucial for success.

Factors to Consider

College Admissions Trends:

Different colleges have varying preferences. Some value advanced math courses, while others prioritize AP classes, particularly in relevant subjects.

Your Interests and Career Goals:

If you plan to pursue a major in computer science or a related field, taking AP Computer Science might better align with your aspirations.

Overall Course Load:

Admissions committees examine your entire academic transcript, including the balance of coursework across subjects, GPA, extracurricular activities, and standardized test scores.

Recommendation

Consider which option aligns best with your interests and strengths. If possible, taking both an advanced math class and an AP course is ideal. Ultimately, demonstrating strong performance in challenging courses significantly benefits your college applications.

Advice and Insights

Based on personal experience, taking a regular Algebra II course due to scheduling constraints can still be beneficial. Here’s advice on how to make the most of your high school courses:

Definitely take Regular Algebra II with AP Computer Science:

Because colleges generally don't prioritize honors math courses, focusing on AP Computer Science can be more beneficial. I was in a difficult situation where I missed out on Honors Algebra II due to limited spaces, and as a result, ended up in a class with older students, which wasn’t ideal.

Certainly, skip Pre-Calc if it's too easy. Formal study might be unnecessary, as it can be mastered in a few days of practice if done correctly.

Take as many AP classes as possible, if manageable. The material is relatively easy to study, even for complex subjects like BC Calculus. I didn’t study for the AP exam and still scored a 3, and I’m not a genius either. It's a give-and-take situation. However, to gain an intuitive understanding, I recommend reading the associated textbooks.