How to Choose the Right Classes for You

Dear Achona,

It’s time to choose classes, but I have no idea what I want to pick. How do I choose the right classes for me?

Dear Anonymous,

Each spring, I (like many of my peers) traverse the precarious line between choosing which classes I think colleges would like to see and which classes I would genuinely like to take. And, in my three years of experience, I’ve realized that it’s gotta be a mix of both. There is a certain level of expectation one has to fulfill in order to attend most schools. 

However, that’s not to say your schedule ought to comprise entirely of AP and Honors courses. You should consider challenging yourself academically only to the extent in which you do not compromise:

1. Your emotional well-being.
2. Your productivity and/or time.
3. Your GPA (that would be counterintuitive).

Your grades are certainly not the “be-all-end-all,” but why take on an AP class only to fail the course?

In short, when planning next year’s schedule, ask yourself:

1. Do I like this class, and do I see myself doing well?
2. Is this class challenging enough for me (not for your parents, friends, the College Board— for you)?
3. Do I have enough time in my schedule to balance this class’ workload?

I hope this helps, but please feel free to look at our article “Academy’s Annual Course Selection Begins” for additional advice!