Taking AP classes is an exciting way to challenge oneself, gain college-level knowledge, and earn college credits while still in high school. But it requires a large amount of attention and time to study. For students considering taking an AP class, preparation and planning are essential to scoring high on the AP exam and passing the class.

The following students were asked a series of questions regarding their experience and advice when it comes to taking an AP class at EPHS.

What’s something you wish you would have known prior to enrolling in an AP class at EP?

AP classes require a higher level of commitment. For instance, an unnamed junior shared that they wished they had known “more about the workload” before enrolling. Many students claimed that they wish they had known that “study[ing] outside of class” is essential. (11th grader-Student Survey)

What are some tips you have for those interested in taking an AP class at EP?

• “Think through the options of the class that you are taking and decide whether you[r] future career is faced in that direction” (Martha Debrowski).
• Be aware of the time factor. A sophomore named Max Ryczek advised that one shouldn’t “take a lot if you don’t have around 1-2 hours of time at home to complete the homework” (Student Survey).
• “Make sure to be present, chronic absences make it really hard to catch up, especially in AP classes” (Unnamed 11th grader).
• Be prepared to take detailed and clear notes (Unnamed 10th grader).
• There’s many factors that play into choosing the right AP course(s) for someone. Yeimi Alday noted that “it’s important to be cognizant of your own limitations.” She asks questions like, “Do you have a job? Are you in multiple sports? Are you in various clubs every week? Do you have the mental capacity to be taking many?”

In your opinion, which AP class at EP is hardest, and which is the “easiest”?

When deciding which AP classes to take, understanding the difficulty level of each course can prepare the student to make a fitted choice that will match one’s strengths and goals. AP courses, in general, are much more advanced and difficult than the average high school class. However, one should understand that there are some AP courses that offer a smoother introduction to college-level work. Below there is a ranked list of hardest AP classes to easiest. All ranks are based on past pass rates and common vote among the students at EPHS.

Hardest:

1. AP Physics l
2. AP Chemistry
3. AP Calculus
4. AP English Literature and Composition

“Easiest”:

1. AP Psychology
2. AP Computer Science Principles
3. AP Seminar
4. AP United States History

Some AP classes have been rumored to be a waste of time and too much work. But taking the classes can mean different things to different people. With the right amount of preparation and willfulness to conquer one’s goals, one should be fine. Make sure to take the above factors into consideration and do your own research about the course(s) you’re interested in selecting for next school year.

Works Cited:

• https://forms.gle/Ab9Nf1QaogQ1rL7o9 (Ove, n.d)
• https://www.collegeadvisor.com/resources/easiest-ap-classes/ (Klein, 2024)
• https://examstudyexpert.com/easiest-ap-classes/ (Wadsworth, 2024)