Is AP Worth the Hassle?

AP classes are often simplified in terms of pros and cons: on the down side, they’re time-consuming and difficult, but on the up side, you can earn college credit if you pass the AP test. However, when deciding whether or not you will accept the challenge of one or more AP classes, there are also less obvious advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Although AP classes can save you money and prepare you better for college, they also come with some drawbacks. If you are truly not prepared to take on the responsibilities that come with an AP class, you’ll be stuck struggling all year, facing low grades and frustration. A common mistake among AP students is overloading. In order to look the best on college applications, they cram their schedules with too many challenging courses; not only does this take a toll on their health and well-being, but they also often neglect some classes or give mediocre performances in all of them. Take the AP classes that will be the most useful to you and consider taking easier classes in subjects you struggle with. Another potential disadvantage of AP classes that I discovered is this: imagine investing a year-long effort, studying for the AP test, even getting a five on the exam, and then discovering that the college of your choice doesn’t do anything with that score. No credit, no exemptions. Nothing. It’s rare, but if you know what school you want to attend, see their AP policy before signing on for a class.
That said, AP classes can also be extremely rewarding. They show colleges that you are willing to challenge yourself and (if you do well) that you can handle a difficult workload. You will pick up invaluable study skills and most likely make new friends. They provide lots of new knowledge and a unique experience; they can help you transition more easily into the academic life you will be facing in college. Even if you bomb the test or don’t take it at all, you will gain experience that could potentially help you for the rest of your life.
If you’re struggling with the decision of whether or not to take an AP class, there are several things you can do. Talk to the teacher and your previous teachers to see if they think you’re up to the challenge. Ask students who have taken the class what they think—is it extremely time-consuming or difficult, did they feel prepared for the AP test, what was the hardest part, etc. Ask the teacher if you can peruse the textbook and any ancillary materials they may use, as well as a copy of the syllabus. Also, you can log on to collegeboard.com and view the general syllabus for any AP class. It will give you and outline of what you’ll need to learn for the year; it will be fairly close to the exact syllabus the teacher will use.
If you do find yourself stranded in a class more difficult than you predicted, or if you just want some tips for success, allow me to share my wisdom. The greatest tool of an AP student is the notebook. Use it, keep it neat, take care of it, snuggle with it because it will be your friend…if you let it. Use colored pens, make little drawings, do anything to keep it interesting and easy to use. When you don’t understand something, take lots of notes and jot down your questions. Another fabulous idea is study groups, particularly around the AP test and finals. Meet up somewhere for dinner and go over the material, asking questions and sharing your expertise. You’ll make great friends and learn a lot, and that’s really the norm for most AP classes.