What even is AP/IB? Will it even make me a better student? How much homework would I have to do? Is it even worth it? These are all common questions when asking about an AP/IB class. Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate are programs for highly motivated students and offer the best college prep. It allows you to get a sense of what a college course may be like. I got a chance to talk to two people about their experiences, and they all said both similar and dissimilar things, which show the diversity surrounding AP/IB experiences. Denese Bryant ‘23, and Tyler Russo ‘22, who are both in  AP and IB classes, were happy to answer questions about their experiences.

If you had to describe all your AP/IB classes in one word, what would that be?

Denese Bryant: “Stressful” 

Tyler Russo: “Challenging”

What is the most interesting/unique difference between AP/IB classes?

Denese Bryant: “Everyone in class has the same ambition when it comes to school. So in group work everyone has the same eagerness and everyone is on the same page. This allows you to feel more connected to the learning process.” 

Tyler Russo: “All of the classes are connected in one way. What we learn and talk about in one class we talk about it and mention in other classes”

What has been the most valuable life lesson you have learned from your AP/IB classes so far? 

Denese Bryant: “Time management”

Tyler Russo: “Time management, skills, and hard work”

As Denese and Tyler both talked about, there is a sense of commonality among your AP/IB classmates academically, and socially that motivates you to work even harder than you thought you could. This sense of belonging leads to building more relationships with teachers and making new friends when you’re either studying for a big test or simply trying to understand the homework, making the AP/IB experience more enjoyable. Poorly planned timing for your new schedule is something you will experience at some point, or if not already have experienced, it is an essential skill needed in college and life. Getting experience with time management now will be incredibly valuable now and later on in life which people do not realize in the moment of course selection. AP/IB classes are some of the top courses offered. Most students do not go into these classes expecting them to be “easy,” which allows you to prepare better and gain new and valuable experiences that you may not get in standard or even honor level classes, as Denese and Tyler mentioned. 

Also, when AP/IB classes are suggested to students, they might start to worry. They may begin to think about the end of the year exams or how much sleep they will lose because of homework. This is possible, but these classes are built to shape the fundamental understanding and application of time management, self diligence, and a good work ethic. Another part that makes this switch easier is the teachers. Every single teacher is willing to help you at any time. Still, it truly depends on the effort you are ready to put in because, believe it or not, people have been very successful and have had unforgettable memories in these classes, which means you can too. So, when thinking about courses for next year, don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers or people in these classes you would want to take about the opportunities and possible experiences. Also, consider your future self, and trust me, your future self would thank you for taking APs and IBs because of the preparation. Many GC students would highly recommend taking an AP/IB class to anyone considering this path. Whether it’s one AP/IB class or all AP/IB classes you take, they will allow you to be the most prepared academically and for college.