The AP Dilema

[SparkShooter]

<p>While I have no particular qualms about the word nerd, I find it more appropriate to say that I am merely bored. I like the “work hard, play harder” philosophy-- and I like to learn new things and get credit/recognition for it. </p>

<p>Plus, AP tests give me a break from my attempt to finish books on “expected” reading lists for colleges.</p>

<p>Oh, and although I’m “theoretically” a Sophomore, I basically went FT to HS in 8th grade and am taking Junior classes as a Sophomore… which is stupid.</p>

[Business_Freak]

<p>

To be sure, AP tests have become a factor in admissions at America’s elite universities, but that is not nor ever was their primary purpose. The academy in the United States, in fact, has a tradition of resisting admission based on standardized tests (see here for a fantastic account of the histories of elite admissions policies).

</p>

<p>AP scores have very significant roles in the admission process of America’s top universities (HYPSM). They show you are capable of rigorous couseload and the more APs with good scores, the better. Check out P*stats, and see what I mean.</p>

[CC_Admin]

<p>

AP scores have very significant roles in the admission process of America’s top universities (HYPSM). They show you are capable of rigorous couseload and the more APs with good scores, the better. Check out P*stats, and see what I mean.

</p>

<p>I’m not denying that. I’m just saying that suggesting the AP program serves first or foremost for admissions is misleading and inaccurate.</p>

[SparkShooter]

<p>To be fair to both sides, I think that APs are an important indicator of motivation and ability. At the same time, there are obviously more important aspects… Nevertheless, their importance shouldn’t be overlooked, at least in my opinion.</p>

[Business_Freak]

<p>AP scores can help make up for grades like a B or C in a particular AP course. Its THAT important!</p>

[SparkShooter]

<p>I suppose-- but my school, like most other schools in the country, has massive grade inflation. This is especially true in AP classes. </p>

<p>At my school, only the “talented tenth” really bother with AP classes, meaning that teachers love us and therefore kind of let us do whatever we want. Although I don’t remember the quote exactly, my AP US His teacher last year said “I don’t care what your grade is. Therefore, I am not going to make it hard to get an A.” And he didn’t. </p>

<p>Does this make him a worse person? I should say not. I still got a 5 on the exam, as did several of my classmates. The class was about doing well on the exam, not getting an A.</p>