<p>" Chem in college for an A so it would probably be even harder for me without it."
NO, it would not. D. never had an AP Chem, her HS did not offer AP Chem. She was hand picked for an SI position by Gen Chem prof. after she ended up having over 100% (with extra credit) on every single test and many lined up after class to ask her questions (which triggered the offer from prof.). D. ended up teaching many who had AP Chem. She recieved a leadership medal at graduation for her SI work and was told many times that she actually raised the grades in this class.
Do whatever you thing is the best for you. But there is no requirement for any AP. Gen. Chem has been the easiest science class for my D. in UG, she did not need to prep. Gen Chem for an MCAT (because of her work as an SI) and continue to be her strongest area in Med. School. All without an AP Chem.</p>