Would Colleges Rather See an Internship or More AP Classes?

College admissions can be a complex process, with various factors influencing the decision. Two components that often come into play are internships and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Both offer valuable benefits, but their relative importance can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. This article delves into the advantages of each and provides a balanced view to help high school students make informed decisions.

The Value of Internships

Practical Experience: Internships provide hands-on experience in professional settings, making them particularly valuable for students pursuing fields such as business, engineering, healthcare, and more. This practical experience can complement and enhance academic knowledge, making students better prepared for future careers.

Skill Development: Engaging in internships helps students develop critical skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued by employers and can significantly boost a student's resume.

Demonstrated Interest: Participating in internships can show a genuine commitment to a chosen field, making applicants stand out from other applicants. It demonstrates not just academic ability but also a proactive approach to learning and career preparation.

The Value of AP Classes

Academic Rigor: AP classes are designed to provide high school students with advanced coursework that mirrors college-level work. Scoring well in these classes can signal to colleges that you are prepared for the intellectual rigor of higher education.

College Credit: Scoring high on AP exams can earn students college credit, potentially saving them time and money in college. This can be particularly beneficial for students looking to accelerate their degree completion or transfer credits to a more prestigious institution.

GPA Impact: High grades in AP classes can positively influence a student's GPA and class rank, making a stronger case for their admissions. Strong academic performance is a foundational element of a competitive application.

A Balanced Approach

In general, the best approach is to strike a balance between both internships and AP classes. If a student can showcase strong academic performance through AP classes while also gaining relevant experience through internships, they will present a well-rounded application. This dual strategy demonstrates both academic and practical skills, making the application more attractive.

Ultimately, it's important to consider personal interests and strengths when deciding how to allocate time and effort in high school. Both internships and AP classes can be valuable, but their relative importance can depend on the specific college and major the applicant is interested in pursuing.

Why Not Just Focus on AP Classes?

While AP classes are valuable, they may not be sufficient on their own. Stu Schmill, an expert in college admissions, suggests that academic prowess alone is only a small part of the admissions process. He estimates that about 75% of the decision-making process hinges on extracurricular activities that demonstrate qualities like leadership, commitment, passion, excellent time management, and warm interpersonal relationships. Internships, if done correctly, can contribute to this mix by providing meaningful experiences and opportunities for personal growth.

Extracurricular Activities: Even if internships are not a major requirement, they can enhance an application by providing unique and valuable experiences. For internships to count as extracurricular activities, they need to involve working with or helping other people, and these experiences should ideally result in positive outcomes for those involved.

Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from top individuals related to the internship or experience can be a significant factor in supporting the application. These letters can provide additional validation of a student's character and commitment.

The Current Landscape of College Majors

At elite private universities, there are often no fixed majors during the first year of college. Students may explore different fields before declaring their major. For instance, an MIT student might start with a declared major in a field like physics but find their passion lies elsewhere, such as aeronautical and astronautical engineering. This flexibility allows students to discover their true interests and career paths.

Flexibility in Majors: This flexibility means that colleges are not solely looking for students who have already decided on a specific path. Demonstrating a willingness to explore different areas of study can be seen as a positive trait, as it shows adaptability and an openness to new opportunities.

Ultimately, the decision between internships and AP classes depends on individual circumstances and goals. Both can contribute significantly to a strong college application, and a balanced approach is generally the most effective strategy.