AP, or Advanced Placement, classes are an everyday occurrence for Magnet students. They can decide to take a few AP classes, or they can decide to take all AP’s (and all power to them). Over the past four years, I have taken 11 AP classes, and here’s what I think about each of them.
Starting strong with AP Human Geography. This was a very interesting course to learn about, and I really enjoyed the material. Being my first-ever AP class, it was a little scary and took a bit of an adjustment period. However, this class definitely helped me refine my study skills and prepared me for tackling Social Studies courses in the future. This class also introduced me to one of the most helpful study tools when it comes to history: Heimler’s History YouTube channel. This is an amazing tool I still use to this day.
The second AP class I took my freshman year was AP Computer Science Principles. I absolutely adored this class. My middle school did not offer many computer-oriented classes, so even though I was going in with a very limited knowledge of computer science and coding, I was able to learn many new skills in class. Also, Code.org was such a fun way to complete assignments and nothing can describe the satisfaction when your code finally works. I still enjoy logging in to this program and checking out some of my old projects, like one that tells you where your nearest Target location is.
Moving on to sophomore year, AP World History was such an interesting break from the normal history I feel I have learned every year since 6th grade. Being able to not only expand my knowledge back in time but also all over the world was one of my favorite parts. This class is what made Social Studies one of my favorite subjects. I enjoyed coming in every day and seeing what had changed on Mr. Garris’ intricately drawn map.
One class that I can not recommend enough is AP Environmental Science. Now, I am not a science-inclined person (sorry Mr. McCormick), but I absolutely loved this class. It is such a great science class choice for someone who is not super interested in the mechanisms of a cell or the Periodic Table. We were able to learn about what it takes to clean water and do fun labs that showed how much pollution our cars give off. If you are looking for an elective any year you are at Magnet, I recommend taking AP Environmental Science.
That is my hot take on each of the AP classes I have participated in at Academic Magnet High School. Make sure to check out Part 2 of Reviewing AP Classes to see what other classes I have taken.
