So I’m a senior right now. My school runs on a quarter system, so when I apply to pretty much every college my first quarter grades are going to be seen. I decided to take a really rigorous courseload this quarter so I can show the colleges that I’m not slacking, I’m still challenging myself, all that. I’m currently taking AP Stats, AP Comp Sci, AP Physics C, AP Government, and AP Macro.
I’m doing well in all of them except for physics. Physics has always been my wekaest subject. I just can’t seem to wrap my head around the concepts, and it’s really hard for me even though I have a solid calc background. It doesn’t help that I’m especially bad at mechanics (B’s both semesters of AP 1) and better at E&M (A’s both semesters of AP 2), and we’re going to be covering mechanics first.
Anyways, my question is: Do you think it would be better to stay with Physics and possibly get a B, or switch to something easier like an art class? Would the colleges appreciate the fact that I challenged myself? I really feel I should take physics, and it does interest me somewhat, but I also don’t want to take a class that might affect me badly right before I submit apps. (I currently have a 4.35 W and 3.80 UW GPA.) I’m obviously going to try very hard to get an A, but it might not happen.
What major are you applying for? What type of schools are you applying to (Ivies, publics, privates, ect.)?
If your major is anything STEM related, they would rather see a B than no AP Physics C at all. If you are a non STEM major, the schools would still be impressed with a B, but if you dropped the class it would be less impactful on addmissions than if you were a STEM major.
I’d say keep physics and just try your best. Colleges understand that AP Physics C is a hard class–for some schools it is reputedly the hardest class a student can take! Getting a B is definitely not going to ruin your application. Especially since you say you struggle with physics, colleges will hopefully see that you are trying to persevere through the class and that you’re trying to challenge yourself. It’s also a good that you’re taking the class because you have a genuine interest in physics. If you really want to, you can always explain your B in your applications and hopefully colleges will see you in a positive light for taking a difficult class you struggle with because you’re following your interests and want to learn.
Colleges also like seeing positive trends. So, even if you get a B this quarter, you have a chance to get an A the following quarter, which will be looked upon favorably by admissions. Good luck and don’t worry!!
