Artificial Intelligence, Course Selection, and Individuality

By: Cole Costantino

Course selection is an inevitable step for every student. But is there a “right way” to do it? What is best for one student may differ wildly from another. How does one determine if an Advanced Placement (AP), regents or honors course is best? It all depends on the individual. What is right or wrong depends on you. Your circumstance, your dreams, your capability. 

Timothy Albanese, a Niskayuna counselor of 15 years, shares this sentiment when asked about the importance of course level and high marks, he placed the importance upon the individual. “In our program, we have an open enrollment system which means kids can choose whatever classes that they wish should they meet [the] prerequisite[s]. The most important thing is that kids feel successful in whatever class they choose. Progression is different for every student.” Linear progression may seem the most stereotypically sensible option, but that is not always the case. For transfer students and those new to the district, it may take some trial and error before they find their appropriate course level and subsequent course load. There can also be a lot of anxiety and stress that comes with this as well.

“Until we’re actually sitting in that classroom, it’s hard to know if that’s an appropriate choice or not,” said Mr. Albanese. 

Another potential stressor is the unknown. Whether a class will be too hard or easy is impossible to gauge from a simple course description or teacher recommendation. 

One of the largest causes of the stress surrounding course selection, and academics in general, comes from comparison. It’s so easy to become preoccupied with the prowess of those around you. Even more so in our digital age. Students in various online spaces, such as TikTok or Instagram, frequently talk about their achievements. Sometimes as a means of encouragement. Sometimes as a subtle flex. Sometimes, worst of all, for profit. Profit, sponsored by artificial intelligence (AI), that comes at the expense of academic integrity.

 In the grand scheme of things, high school is just a stepping stone. It is not the end all be all. However, it is unwise to disregard its value and potential significance completely. 

AI tools are peddled online as a means to get by and even ahead. Advertised as a well kept secret amongst those with above average statistics, many may be falsely lured in under the guise that AI guarantees a 4.0 or greater GPA and a five on any AP exam.

These grades are the perceived new normal. But this is skewed and exaggerated. It is not that students are incapable of achieving this, but that they are few and far between. There is also a false ideal that every student is achieving this. What can help combat this is to focus on yourself. Regarding course selection, establishing a relationship with your counselor may help. Especially if stress is a concern for you.

Here at Niskayuna, the initial course selection and registration process is organized for efficiency. It’s a quick conversation in the pool lobby, maybe 5-10 minutes a student. Since it is so brief, there is the potential for unanswered questions. 

“What I would suggest is getting those course requests into the system in that short time frame, but then following up with the counselor to get more of a one-on-one conversation [where] you feel like you can ask any of the questions that you may have.” Said Mr. Alabenese’s as his final piece of advice. 

The most we can do is try. Try and fail, or try and succeed, it doesn’t matter, so long as we continue to take such leaps. Focus on you. Prioritize you. In course selection and beyond, you come first and it is you who matters most.