Hi,
I applied to Barnard early decision and I do not like AP Physics. Do you think I could drop this class and still be accepted?
My stats:
33 on ACT (34 math, 34 reading, 35 english, 31 science)
4.0 unweighted GPA
10 AP classes (almost all my school offers, I just didn’t take AP comp sci or AP Bio)
I’m the Executive Editor of my school newspaper, a founding member of nationally recognized activist organization, 6 years of Latin (it’s not offered at my school), I’m a camp counselor, I’m part of two other activist groups and I played piano for 5 years. I’m in lots of other clubs too like politics club, Environment Club, Student Council, and art club.
Dropping AP Physics seems like an adequate option. The only other thing that you would have to address is finding a new college to apply to. I’m sure other colleges would love to admit someone with the amount of drive and passion that you have. Not doing something because you “do not like it” is the exact qualifications that the upper-tier universities are searching for. Might I suggest Harvard?
OP, to answer your question, if Barnard asks for your first quarter grades and sees that you dropped AP Physics, it could count against you. If you drop AP Physics and are accepted to Barnard, you will have to notify them that you dropped the class.
What would you put in its place? Regular physics or no science at all? What is your intended major? Most competitive schools want to see 4 years of science.
IMO, dropping AP physics could be a substantial drop in rigor. And you would need to let Barnard know that you made the change, as well as any other schools you have already applied to EA.
My daughter dropped AP Physics. In my opinion, that won’t be the reason for acceptance or denial. I think it is totally reasonable, and think that given Barnard’s strong emphasis on self care and balance they likely agree, that you’ve considered your schedule and your life and realized it might be better to withdraw from that class. You can send a note to your rep if you are concerned.
Also you’ve clearly got rigor if you already have 10 AP classes on your transcript.
I agree-- send a note to the admission officer and explain your reasoning for dropping (I hope it’s not b/c your failing it.) Unless you’re applying as a Physics or maybe math major it should be fine given your other courses. Don’t drop it and not inform them though.