Why High School Students Should take AP Courses (Especially Premed Students)

As high school students prepare for the college admissions process, many are faced with the challenge of choosing courses that will not only help them graduate but also set them up for success in college and beyond (ie. medical school or other tracks). Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer one of the best ways to gain a competitive edge. These rigorous, college-level courses can help students build strong academic foundations, earn college credit, and stand out to admissions officers. Also, for students interested in specific career paths, such as becoming a doctor, AP courses can be especially valuable.

What Are AP Courses?

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are college-level classes offered in high school that are administered by the College Board. At the end of each AP course, students take an AP exam that tests their knowledge on the subject. Depending on the score they achieve, students may earn college credit, which can save time and money in their college career. AP courses also demonstrate to colleges that a student is capable of handling more challenging material, making them an attractive candidate for admission.

Benefits of AP Courses: why high school students should take AP courses

1. College Credit: The most immediate benefit of taking AP courses is the potential to earn college credit. Most colleges accept AP exam scores of 3 or higher for credit, meaning you could bypass introductory courses in subjects where you already have knowledge. This gives you more flexibility to explore other subjects or dive deeper into your chosen major.

2. Stronger College Applications: Admissions officers want to see that applicants have taken advantage of challenging opportunities. AP courses show that you are capable of handling rigorous academic work and are committed to pushing yourself. This can be a major plus for competitive colleges and universities.

3. Better Preparation for College: AP courses provide an introduction to the type of coursework you’ll encounter in college. These classes are fast-paced, require critical thinking, and often demand a higher level of independence. By the time you enter college, you’ll already have experience with the challenges of higher education, which can make the transition smoother.

4. Improved Time Management Skills: Because AP courses require more effort and discipline, students learn how to manage their time effectively. This skill is essential not only in high school but also throughout college and in the workforce.

5. Self-Reflection for Majors and Careers:

   Some of my college advising clients come to me early in the college admissions process and ask me what sort of major or career they should consider. It is hard for parents to help guide students through this kind of decision for many reasons, one being that students are relatively young and it seems early to have to make a decision like this. AP courses can be helpful earlier in the college admissions process because they can help expose students to interests and passions they might have not considered otherwise. For example, if a student takes physics, they might realize they absolutely hate it and have no inclination toward it, which may guide them against a physics-dependent field like engineering. On the other hand, if a student takes anatomy and gravitates to the concepts taught in that class, it might be an indicator that something anatomy-related or even medical related may be something they could explore in college and even discuss in their common application essay.

AP Courses for Premed Students

For students interested in pursuing a career in medicine, taking AP courses in high school can give them a head start in their academic journey. Here are some AP courses that would be especially beneficial for a premed student:

1. AP Biology: This is useful for any student thinking about a career in medicine. AP Biology covers foundational concepts in biology, including cell structure, genetics, evolution, and ecology. A solid understanding of biology will be critical in medical school and beyond.

2. AP Chemistry: Chemistry is another core subject for premed students. AP Chemistry introduces concepts in chemical reactions, atomic structure, and organic chemistry. A strong grasp of chemistry will be essential for coursework in biochemistry and pharmacology later on. Chemistry is also a requirement for premed in college.

3. AP Physics: While not all medical careers require physics, an understanding of the principles of motion, force, and energy can be helpful for students interested in fields like radiology or medical imaging. AP Physics also strengthens problem-solving skills. Physics is also a requirement for premed in college.

4. AP Calculus: Math is integral to many areas of medicine, especially in fields like biostatistics and medical research. AP Calculus provides the skills needed for understanding data analysis, which will be helpful when reading medical literature or conducting studies in college. Some BS/MD programs may require AP Calculus before applying to their program.

5. AP Psychology: Understanding human behavior is crucial for anyone entering the medical field. AP Psychology provides insights into mental health, cognitive processes, and human development, all of which are important for future doctors to grasp.

Conclusion

Taking AP courses in high school is a strategic decision that can pay off in the long run, especially for students considering specific careers in fields like medicine. These courses not only help you earn college credit and improve your chances of college admission but also provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in your future career. If you’re a premed student, AP Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Calculus, and Psychology are excellent choices to set yourself up for success in both college and medical school.

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Sincerely,

Dr. Medeeha Khan