By Tishel Monk
Every spring, course selection season brings the same question: Should I take an AP class? Or am I not “smart enough"? As the school year ends, students begin classes for the next year, unless you're a senior. I myself am a sophomore and I've taken two AP classes this year. I consider myself one who likes to challenge myself, and I enjoy hard work as I believe it pays off.
Sophomore year is the year you are able to take your first AP classes typically. Going into this school year I was confident in my decision to take an AP class. I quickly realized AP classes are much more than a flashy label to suggest to others you’re “smarter.” They are a personal commitment to yourself. However the real question being: Are you willing to put in an advanced level of effort into everything you do?
Taking AP classes I believe has shaped and changed me into a more productive and disciplined person. I've learned to prioritize things that are important and approach my work with more depth. It taught me to take risks both inside and outside the classroom, from trying a new rhetorical strategy in an AP lang essay to trying out for a sports team I've never played.
These tiny moments helped build my confidence in my writing and most importantly, in myself.
When considering an AP class, if it feels too challenging or intimidating don't let that fear make your decision. Instead, ask yourself : Am I capable and willing to put in all I need in order to succeed? In an AP class, shortcuts like cheating will only get you so far.
As the youngest in my AP language class, if I could give my September self one piece of advice it would be this: don’t compare yourself to your classmates’ ideas or writing. Stay true to yourself and keep feeding your intellect. Read more, speak up during discussions, even when it feels vulnerable, and listen with intention because that understanding will help later on essays and multiple choice questions.
Don’t take any lesson or feedback for granted because time moves fast, and before you know it, it’ll be April and you will be taking your AP exam in a few weeks.
With every essay, take a slight risk. That one extra detail or that one rhetorical term you’re still learning will later build confidence and skill. Write clearly enough that anyone can understand your ideas, but develop them fully and with sophistication.
AP lang isn’t just something to brag about; it’s something you have to work for. Nobody can pick up your pencil and write for you. Your writing is a display of your mind, and you have a unique voice, so keep it and explore it and grow it.
This doesn't just simply apply to AP English courses. You know yourself best. You are contemplating taking that AP class because something in you is yearning to be fed, grow and bloom into something beautiful. Take advantage of your opportunities and if you are willing to put in the work, it will pay off.