Advanced Placement (AP) classes are often seen as intimidating and overwhelming, with the “AP” label sometimes discouraging students before they even try. However, many students at Auburn Riverside High School say the experience ultimately helps them grow both academically and personally when approached with the right mindset and thoughtfully.
“AP classes are an amazing way to prepare for future course rigor in college, but having the ambition to take multiple AP’s must be backed up with the right action,” said senior Alisha Rajan. “Simply wanting the ability to say you did a lot is great, but sometimes pride can get the best of us… so be prepared to put in as much effort as possible for the best results and satisfaction!”
While AP classes offer valuable preparation, many students acknowledge that the pressure surrounding exams and classes can be overwhelming.
“Going into my first exam, I was very nervous and unprepared because I didn’t know what to expect,” opened up senior Kaitlyn Song who will now be attending Brown University this upcoming fall. Both seniors have taken an impressive amount of AP classes throughout their high school years, an experience they say requires strong time management, ambition, and effort.
Both seniors also emphasized the importance of preparation and study strategies when taking multiple AP classes.
“I would advise students considering taking multiple AP classes to use their resources and actively study through practice questions in addition to reading or watching videos while making sure to stay on top of things and learn to prioritize because it is easy to fall behind,” said Alisha.
Kaitlyn added, “The most challenging moment was having to study for and take two AP tests in one day, which I felt could have affected my work and results.”
Both agreed that consistent effort and organization were key to managing the rigorous workload while still staying involved in extracurricular activities like music, sports, and after school clubs.
AP teachers also play a key role in helping students succeed. AP psychology teacher Mrs. Crystal Jilbert advises students focusing on consistent review and practice questions throughout the year, rather than cramming at the last minute.
“Start with 20 minutes and do it everyday. Try every day and create a routine where it is the same place in the house, or the same time, or both…” Jilbert suggests.
With small, daily efforts like this, students can tackle the challenges of AP classes while maintaining balance and confidence.
Freshmen benefit from support from their AP teachers as they adjust to the pace and workload of high school courses. Mitchell Hernandez, a freshmen in AP human Geography, said, “I have AP Human Geography which is taught by Mr.Monsen and he’s a great teacher… He always gives us examples, which helps me a ton.”
In addition to teacher guidance, Mitchell has developed strategies to stay organized and prepared for exams. “I use two column notes. So, I fold the right side of the page so I only see the left column which has the CED. I answer the CED sentence which is how I study,” he added.
Mitchell reminded students not to overthink the challenge saying, “It’s not so hard as long as I pay attention and look back on my notes.” These daily habits help students build confidence and prepare for future AP courses.
As students gain more experience with AP classes, many learn how to better manage their workload and balance responsibilities. A junior currently taking four AP classes shared that staying organized is key.
“I try to finish the homework I get that day so the work won’t pile up. If I have a test that week, I start studying two days in advance,” Eileen Cho says. She also emphasized the importance of balance, explaining, “I take breaks while studying to have dinner, go for a walk, or do personal things.” By building consistent habits early, students are able to handle the increased rigor of AP classes while maintaining their well-being.
Even with the challenges of AP classes, students and teachers agree that success comes from effort, consistency, and perseverance. Alisha Rajan advised, “Advice I would give to students considering taking multiple AP’s is putting in a lot of effort into making detailed reviews like a one pager or a Google doc for each unit, that way at the end of the year, you can just go back to all of the reviews you made and use them to study.”
Eileen Cho adds, “Some days will be tough and exhausting, but finishing them will make you feel proud. Don’t forget to take breaks so you don’t burn out.”
Mitchell Hernandez encouraged others, saying “I would 100 percent recommend AP classes for freshmen because it will benefit them later on. Also, the teachers will prepare you for the AP exam.”
Sophomore Daniel Cho reminded students, “Be prepared to pay attention during lectures.”
Senior Kaitlyn Song offered a final thought that sums up the advice from all grade levels: “I think colleges look for passion and potential, like people who have shown growth and are motivated to grow even more in college and beyond or people who want to make a positive impact on their community with their talents.”
