Author: Christin Baek - Western Reserve Academy
May arrives with bursts of colors and flowery scents in that fine line between spring and summer. Amidst the anticipation of sunny days and the upcoming summer break, there’s one more thing May brings: AP exams.
Advanced Placement exams (AP) are standardized assessments designed by the College Board to evaluate students’ proficiency in advanced materials covered throughout the year. Offering the opportunity to earn college credits and delve into college-level material, AP exams hold considerable value for high school students. Thus, most high schools integrate AP classes into their curriculum to prepare their students for these exams. My school is one of the few that does not do this.
Because of this, when I mention my preparations for AP exams to friends, their responses vary. Some even question, why even take the AP exam? Others urge me to enjoy life beyond academics. Meanwhile, some relate to my struggles, regretting their decision to sign up for the exams.
Unlike many other schools, Western Reserve Academy, WRA, opts for College-Level (CL) courses in place of AP courses. This provides teachers with flexibility in exploring diverse subjects more in-depth and taking different teaching approaches; WRA seeks to foster an environment away from “teaching for the test.”
Even with the emphasis on CL courses, AP exams remain popular among the student body. Jessica Wu, class of 2026, a student preparing for AP Calculus BC and AP Physics 1, said, “I think AP exams definitely have long-term benefits in receiving college credits, and it also adds to my resume.” As such, some view AP exams as an addition to the CL courses and a pathway to enhance their resume.
On the other hand, individuals like Andrea Zhang, class of 2026, a student preparing for AP Economics and Mandarin, express discontent with the status quo. “It’s ironic – I feel that I am forced to take the AP exams. Although the CL courses intend to divert students’ attention from standardized results to deeper understandings of course materials, societal stigmas pressure students into printing fives all over their resumes.”
Despite the absence of official AP preparation courses, students at WRA continue to demonstrate their determination in preparing for these exams. Though there is controversyis surrounding the AP exams and CL courses, this reflects on students’ commitment to academic excellence and growth.
Even though they are not taking AP classes, students prepare for their AP exams at local cafes.
The Korea Daily Youth Program
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