Can taking more high school classes than required help in college admissions?

I have a question for y’all—if I exceed the required number of classes to graduate from high school, like taking extra science or language classes, does it give me an edge in the college admission process, or is it more about the type and difficulty of the classes you choose?

It's fantastic to see you taking initiative in your education! Going above and beyond the minimum requirements can be beneficial because it shows colleges that you're willing to challenge yourself and that you have a strong work ethic. However, the type and difficulty of the classes are also crucial.

Admissions officers look for students who take rigorous courses relative to what's available at their school. For example, if you're interested in science and your school offers advanced placement (AP) courses in biology, chemistry, or physics, taking those classes (and doing well in them) would likely be more impressive than merely exceeding the total number of required science courses.

Likewise, if language is your interest, advancing to higher levels or taking AP language courses would demonstrate proficiency and commitment. Remember, the key is not just to take more classes but to excel in challenging courses that align with your academic and career goals. This could include combining your coursework with related extracurricular activities to further showcase your interests and abilities. Best of luck on your journey!