Advice on the most useful classes to take in high school?

Hey there! In terms of preparing us for college and life beyond, which classes in high school have you found the most useful? Is there any class you took that you'd say has really helped you in the long run?

The classes you find most beneficial in high school often depend on your personal interests and career goals. If you have a strong idea of your future major or career path, classes related to that field would be beneficial. For instance, if you plan to pursue engineering, high level math and physics courses would be valuable. If you're interested in humanities, courses like AP Literature, AP U.S. History, or foreign language courses may broaden your perspective and improve your skills in critical thinking and writing.

That being said, generally speaking, there are a few types of classes that tend to be beneficial for most students.

1. Writing Intensive Classes: These could be English, social sciences or other humanities classes. Developing your writing skills is critical for almost every college course or field. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely is a very important skill to have.

2. Math and Science Classes: A solid foundation in these core subjects can help in various fields. Even if you aren't going for a STEM major, mathematical competence can be necessary for courses in social sciences and life sciences.

3. Foreign Language Classes: These not only fulfill high school graduation and college admission requirements, but can also make you more globally aware and potentially open up opportunities to study or work abroad.

4. College Credit Bearing Classes: If your school offers Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual enrollment classes, these can be incredibly helpful. They give you a taste of college level work, possibly earn you college credits, and can save you money down the line.

Remember, the exact courses that will be most beneficial for you will depend largely on your interests and goals. Choosing classes that you are genuinely interested in will likely lead to a more enjoyable and successful high school experience.