Taking a class because you love it vs. for the grade?

jane12345
Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:22:27 +0000

Hi guys! I’m working on course selection for my upcoming junior year in high school and I wanted some advice on something. I’m planning on taking AP U.S. History, AP Bio, Honors Precalc, Honors French, and Honors English (these are the highest levels offered). So far, I have a 4.94 GPA (out of 5), or 3.95 out of 4.

My problem is that I really want to take a social studies elective in addition to these 5 majors that is only offered at Level 2 (one step below Honors). I’m really interested in learning the material and that is why I want to take it. However, getting an A in that class will lower my weighted GPA.

I’m thinking of applying to very selective colleges (my dream school is UPenn); do you think they would like to see me taking 6 majors that I love, with a lower weighted GPA and a Level 2 class on my transcript, or just the basic 5 majors and a higher weighted GPA and all honors level classes on my transcript?