I've heard from some graduating seniors that there were some classes they took in high school that didn't benefit them much in terms of college or career preparation. Which classes are typically viewed as the most pointless from a college admissions standpoint or a professional development perspective? I'm working on planning my class schedule for senior year and I want to make the most out of my last year of high school.
In terms of classes that are often perceived as less advantageous for college admissions or professional development, it mostly depends on the context and your goals. If a class lacks rigor, doesn't progress your interests or specialty, or isn't related to your intended major or career, it might not have as much value for you.
For example, if you’re hoping to major in Biology and you have a choice between AP Biology and a lower-level ceramics class, choosing AP Biology would be more relevant and beneficial for your college applications and future career pursuits.
It's also worth noting that colleges appreciate a more rigorous course load, which typically includes advanced placement or honors classes. If, for instance, you are taking a "filler" fine arts class instead of a more challenging AP course simply for an easier A, colleges might not view this as favorably. This doesn't mean you should avoid arts or elective classes altogether, but they should ideally complement a rigorous core academic curriculum.
However, it's also very important to ensure you have a balanced schedule that you can manage successfully, and it's okay to take classes that you simply enjoy or that add a different dimension to your overall academic experience. Not every class you take in high school needs to be directly linked to your college major or intended career - exploring different fields can be valuable, too.
Ultimately, the perceived value of a class depends greatly on your own personal, academic, and professional goals. If a class caters to your interests or fuels your passion, even if it's not directly connected to your planned college major or career path, it can still be a meaningful part of your high school experience. Engaging in what you genuinely care about can often be just as important as strategic planning for college admissions or future careers.
In sum, consider what you're passionate about, where your interests lie, and what classes can best support your academic and career path while also sustaining a balanced and manageable course load.
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