Should I Take AP French or AP European History Next Year?

Deciding which Advanced Placement (AP) course to take is a crucial step in your high school journey. Both AP French and AP European History offer unique benefits and challenges, making the decision somewhat subjective. In this article, we provide a thorough comparison to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and strengths.

Choosing Between AP French and AP European History

When evaluating between AP French and AP European History, it's essential to consider multiple factors, including your interests, time management skills, and long-term goals. High school senior Em shares firsthand experience, providing valuable insights from their own academic journey.

Personal Experience of Em

Em, a high school senior, has navigated the AP courses with a profound understanding of the demands of various subjects. Em did not explore AP French but chose AP European History (AP Euro) with relative ease. According to Em, the workload was manageable, yet the subject matter didn't particularly resonate with them. With seven AP classes under their belt, Em emphasizes the importance of time management in handling multiple advanced courses. This experience suggests that if you can fit both courses into your schedule, taking both might be feasible.

Advice for Fitting Only One Course

If only one course fits into your schedule, Em recommends considering AP French. According to Em, AP French is generally more practical and can open doors for you in the future. Speaking a second language is undeniably more valuable than a comprehensive but narrow understanding of European history. Knowing a second language can significantly enhance your academic and professional opportunities, making AP French a valuable choice.

Key Considerations for Your Decision

Language Skills

Em notes that AP French is likely easier for students who are proficient in the language. If you have a natural aptitude for languages or have studied French in the past, AP French might be a relatively smoother path for you. The language component can shine in households or environments where French is spoken.

Historical Knowledge and Essay Writing

On the other hand, AP European History (AP Euro) demands strong analytical skills and the ability to write compelling essays. If you've already taken other history courses and demonstrate proficiency in essay writing, AP Euro may be more suitable for you. The subject matter covers critical periods of European history and requires extensive research and critical thinking. This course is ideal for students interested in deepening their understanding of global events and fostering strong writing abilities.

Recommendations

Based on Em's insights, here are some key recommendations:

If you're fluent or proficient in French: Consider AP French, as you'll find it more accessible and can enjoy the benefits of learning a new language. If you excel in history and writing: AP European History may be the better choice, especially if your goal is to enhance your analytical skills and written communication. If you only have time for one course: AP French is a solid pick for its practical benefits and potential for enhancing your language skills.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to which course aligns best with your strengths and career aspirations. Consider your personal interests, prerequisite knowledge, and the demands of each course to guide your choice. Good luck with your academic journey!

FAQs

Q: Can I take both AP French and AP European History?

A: Yes, if you have the time and energy to sustain the workload of managing two AP courses simultaneously. However, ensure you have a robust time management strategy to handle the demands of both subjects.

Q: Which AP course is more useful in the long run?

A: Speaking a second language (like French in AP French) often provides a broader range of career opportunities compared to a specialized historical knowledge base, making AP French a more versatile choice in the long term.

Q: How important is time management when choosing an AP course?

A: Time management is crucial for excelling in multiple AP courses. Ensure you have a balanced schedule and the support you need to handle the workload effectively.