Advanced Placement and Dual Credit classes are advanced courses intended to push students to their limits while earning college credit. While challenging, they aren’t impossible to pass.
Junior Tayla Noorda, who is taking AP and DC classes, said she takes these courses for the challenge.
“I chose to take them because I kind of wanted to give myself a challenge and I wanted to do something that I am proud of and also colleges find that impressive,” Noorda said.
Although taking these classes can be a challenge, the outcome may prove to be worth the struggle.
The AP Capstone diploma is just one of the upsides that come with taking AP classes. Junior Kathleen Voges, who is taking both AP and DC classes, said that she looks forward to reaping the benefits that accompany these courses.
“I took them mostly to challenge myself because last year I took easier classes, and this year I took harder ones, so it’s like a note to myself to try a little harder in a way, but, you know, taking AP Seminar and Research next year will definitely be beneficial to me,” Voges said. “Getting that Capstone diploma [is beneficial] because, I mean, not only is that great for college [but] it benefits me in the long term.”
Rachel Lechner, AP Seminar teacher, said the AP Capstone diploma can help students later on in their college career.
“AP Capstone diploma is a specialized diploma for students who take two Capstone courses,” Lechner said. “Including the two courses, you need six other AP classes. It’s a unique diploma because it’s not offered everywhere and it does give kids an advantage when applying for scholarships, and applying to schools.”
Lechner said reaching out for help when needed is the best option for succeeding in these classes.
“Definitely ask a teacher,” Lechner said. “Email always works really well, [as well as] using STAR time [or coming in] before and after school. I know that all of the teachers in the program are willing and able to help with anything you need.”
While there are a variety of classes, Voges said taking core classes will be the most beneficial.
“I definitely think English is important,” Voges said. “I mean, that’s just based off of my views on when you’re in college and have to write essays and come across as professional. I think English will benefit you in high school, in college and later in life. We use English everywhere, and taking any science and math dual credits and AP classes are going to be great, obviously, but that’s more for colleges to look at.”
Overall, achievements that come with taking these classes can be attainable, but may come at the cost of time and effort.
“Definitely keep track of all your homework,” Noorda said. “It’s a hard class. These are hard classes, and if you want to do good then you are going to ask questions, you’re going to be attentive in class [and] you are going to go home and study. It’s a lot of work, but it’s going to help you in the long run.”