AP classes are notorious for being extremely demanding and stressful. They come with numerous benefits such as college credit and learning beneficial skills, but it isn’t that simple of a task to successfully handle them.
This brings students to ask a question: How should they approach these classes to manage them properly?
Time management is one of the most important skills, according to junior Kaitlyn Salway, who has previously taken AP European History and AP Pre-Calculus, and is currently enrolled in AP Calculus AB, AP Language & Composition, and AP Chemistry.
“Time management has been the biggest stress reliever for me,” said Salway. “I try to keep my planner up to date with deadlines, and I set aside specific time each week to study my notes.”
A large number of students who take AP classes also have substantial extracurricular commitments, making it harder to set aside time to study. Extracurricular activities and sports can lead to limited time outside of classrooms to do any extra work that was assigned for homework or not finished in class.
“Carve out your time,” said AP Language & Composition teacher Robin Lusk-Stancil. “When I was in high school, I did sports, so when I got home, it didn’t get done.”
Lusk-Stancil also says that it is good to have a plan prior to doing work so that it gets done. That takes a lot of patience and self-discipline, which is why students need to be diligent.
“[It’s] not that the class [AP English 11] is hard, [but] it takes a lot of effort,” Lusk-Stancil stated. “You have to put in the effort. Stick with it and be willing to put in the extra work.”
Lusk-Stancil also noted that many AP teachers give opportunities for extra points and review. Lusk-Stancil added that it is unfortunate when students “don’t take advantage of opportunities that are offered to them that will eventually improve [their grade].”
Enjoying and understanding a subject beforehand can make a class much easier.
“I believe that it depends on a person’s strengths and interests,” said Salway. “For example, if you are stronger in math and science, it makes sense to take courses like AP Calculus or AP Biology earlier, rather than AP English Language and Composition or AP. U.S. History.”
She also went on to say that she chose to take AP Chemistry over AP Biology or AP Environmental because she has more interest in chemistry and wanted to continue her studies on the topic before moving on to other AP science courses.
Even though these classes are extremely rigorous, at the end of the day, they are very rewarding, according to junior Laylah Smith.
“I’ve been able to work on my time management and have been learning note-taking and studying skills from my teacher, so I can use it in all of my other classes,” said Smith.
Students interested in taking these courses need to be aware of all the tools they have and the benefits of AP classes, to use them to the fullest degree. Reach out to guidance counselors today to figure out what is best for your specific needs and interests! Use these course opportunities to their fullest potential.
