Senior year: for some, this year means a nice easy time before heading off to college and working harder than they have previously. For others, however, senior year means getting a jump-start on college classes and making sure that they’re maintaining good grades and  GPA. 

Advanced placement classes, more commonly known as AP classes, are a great way for students to challenge themselves and earn college credit while still in high school. There are a multitude of different AP classes offered, and they come in a wide range of different subjects. The work may be tougher, but students like senior Alexis Delos Reyes prove that it is manageable. 

“In the fall it’s hard because I have softball, but the first thing I do is busy work that is due the next day,” Delos Reyes said. “After that, then I try to study for each class every night.” 

Delos Reyes currently has a full schedule; six AP classes and an Honors Spanish Four class. 

“I always wanted to push myself because I didn’t want to take an easy route, and my parents encouraged me to get the most out of my education,” Delos Reyes said. 

When taking AP classes, there are two ways to earn the college credit: students can either dual enroll or take a comprehensive test at the end of the year.  

“I’m only going to take around three or four AP exams because if I took more, I wouldn’t be able to study efficiently for them,” Delos Reyes said. 

There are many other benefits to AP classes as well. The curriculum is taught as if it is a college class, so there is more responsibility put on the student to help make the transition from high school to college easier. 

“I think challenging myself in high school [with AP classes] will prepare me for the work load in college,” Delos Reyes said. “It teaches me [about having a] good work ethic, time management and good studying habits.” 

AP classes are a great option for any student who wants to get ahead for college, or just to challenge themselves more.