by Tracy Smith, J1 Writer

Sophomore year is more than just the second year of high school. For some students, it means taking on more responsibility academically.

“Right now I’m taking one [AP class] because it’s the only one I could take this year,” says Sam Hoskins. “Plus, I felt I was working above pre-AP level, so AP was my only option.”

According to a survey commissioned by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, 56 percent of public school AP teachers think that too many students overestimate their academic abilities and are in over their heads when it comes to AP classes.

“I feel that I’m ready to take on the three that I’ve chosen [for next year], but I wish I could add one more,” says Sam. “AP’s aren’t really that difficult, but they can be sort of time consuming. That’s why I’m taking a study hall for half a semester next year.”

While some students are only taking one AP class, others are taking on more.

“I am taking two AP classes this year,” says Sana Khan. “The two that I am taking are Spanish and World History.”

Two AP classes may seem like too much for some students, but not for Sana.

“Next year I am planning to take seven. I didn’t mean for it to come out like that, but all of the classes I am able to take are AP, so I am going for it,” says Sana. “For example, I am taking Pre-cal right now so that means Calculus AB AP is a course I can take”

For some students, taking one AP class was their only option.

“I only took one this year because I didn’t have many choices, but next year I will be taking four,” says Sydney Bratton. “Because I’m a sophomore, my AP choices were very limited.”

Even though AP classes can be stressful, students persevere to get that college credit.

“Usually when I’m stressed out, I either just take a break and just chill,” says Sydney. “Though most of the time I just vent to my friends through a phone call or text.”
According to Sam, taking an AP class was not a waste of time. He would even suggest it to non-AP students.

“These AP classes prepare you for the real world and provide in-depth education on certain subjects. I would definitely recommend students to take these classes, but be ready to sacrifice some time to do the work and study for the slightly harder tests.”