are colleges impressed by this?

Apollo11
Fri, 19 Apr 2013 22:28:31 +0000

Yes, it would benefit a college’s perception, but likely only in the idea that it shows that you are highly interested in a certain field.

However, that Coursera stuff can be lethal. If a course requires 10+ hours a week, then it would be better for college if you were just taking an online AP course or self-studying during that time. Remember AP’s have special awards based upon the number of tests and the average score you get. Also, AP’s can allow you to have space to study abroad, graduate early or with multiple majors [or minors/certificates] and even move into graduate-level courses [Very important for resumes when applying to jobs and grad school]