<p>Hi,
I am applying to Princeton, but in grade 11, I was taking such a challenging course load (gifted classes), and had so many extracurriculars, I just couldn’t handle taking a full course load. Instead I took one spare. Will I be penalized for the spare? My friend took a spare and still managed to get into Yale… I am really trying hard to get in but i just don’t have time for an extra course. </p>
<p>What do you guys think? Will I be okay for admissions?</p>
<p>I’m in a similar situation as you (except my school won’t let me graduate without 4 years of english to I just skipped my junior year). I don’t think it would hurt you alot, but your counselor won’t be able to check the “taking the most rigorous courseload” box. However, as long as you do well in those classes it should be fine. (I’m taking a “spare” but it’s listed as a Gifted and Talent Program class)</p>
<p>oh right, you see I remember of thinking to take something like “media studies” for an breezer course (meaning I wouldn’t show up often but still do the work and get mid-90’s) but my counsellor told me that would look even worse (taking an “open” course rather than a spare).</p>
<p>Gifted eh? Do they have special gifted classes in the States too?</p>
<p>Depends on how your schools scheduling works, really. My school allows a person to take a completely full day of courses as well as after school classes- there is no built in lunch, study hall etc. If your school has free periods such as lunch built in, it could hurt you, but if your classes were as rigorous as you say, it shouldn’t really matter.</p>