AP students fear the switch from dark to light blue. Photo courtesy of Arts and Entertainment editor Olivia Cusick

  The fear of the future, as well as the desire to be the best a student can be, pushes students at San Luis Obispo High School to increase their work load and take on more advanced classes.

  But taking these courses, specifically Advanced Placement and other high weighted ones, often isn’t for the college credit, but rather for the ego boost that comes with taking on harder coursework. 

  “Students definitely take AP classes because they are the classes you can brag about. People think they are impressive to take,” said junior Charly Beck.

  AP tests cost $97 if bought before November 16, and if bought after, a forty dollar late fee will be added. With a paywall and the stress, as well as the risk of failing the major test, AP tests are not for everyone. 

  Taking AP tests is not the only reason that students take advantage of advanced courses. With a GPA boost, that’s another incentive to take those classes. 

  “There are a bunch of kids in AP classes who legitimately don’t like or care about school, but they are in the classes because they make you feel good,” said Beck. It makes students feel smarter and special.

  Telling other students about a schedule filled to the brim with AP classes is such a powerful feeling. But despite that feeling, the workload can certainly take a toll on students.

  “I think that kids shouldn’t take too many AP classes. Take college classes when you go to college. That’s what you go to college for,” said AP and regular government teacher Jim Johnson.  

  Spending the money could benefit students if they earn a three on the test or higher, leaving them with college credit. With enough good scores, a student could potentially graduate early.

  “I feel like the main reason students take these classes is to get into colleges. I doubt anyone would put themselves through this, just for ego reasons” said sophomore Liam Alsbury.

  When taking AP classes, balance is important. While it may feel great to brag about the amount of classes, continuing to get good grades as well as a healthy sleep schedule is much more powerful. 

Source: Collegeboard.org