As the year draws to a close, AP students study frantically for their AP exams. Unless these tests are passed, their entire year of work will have been in vain for college credit. AP (advanced placement) classes can be taken in order to get college credit while still in high school. While the work is on a college level, the rewards of taking these classes are many.

“If a student passes an AP class, they can waive some of their lower division credits for college,” Ginger Niemeyer, vice principal, said. “Even if they don’t pass, students find that AP classes are a good preparation for college.”

Students who have taken these classes agree with Niemeyer that AP classes are well worth their effort.

“I took AP calculus this year,” Michael Ward, ’03, said. “It was pretty hard, but I think it has been worth the effort. I learned a lot, and it will help me when I am in college.”

Niemeyer taught and administered the AP English exam.

The AP exams, which were taken in May, are administered simultaneously to AP students across the nation. The exams, which are on college level, require much preparation on the part of the students.

“The AP history test was very long,” Jamie Meadows, ’03, said. ” It covered a vast range of information. I thought the multiple-choice section was the easiest, and, overall, I think I did pretty well on the test.”

Students considering taking an AP class next year should bear in mind the fact that AP classes are considerably harder then other classes.

“AP classes are not good places to go and get an easy ?A,'” Niemeyer said. “These classes involve more reading and writing, and a lot more intense study. AP classes are definitely for the more serious students.”

For those interested in taking an AP class next school year, see Niemeyer or Principal Gary Schultz for more information. Class lists are now forming and students are required to complete some reading and work during the summer. Campus offers AP classes in English literature and composition, U.S. history, and biology. Some students have studied independently with Niemeyer and taken the AP language and composition test as well.