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Thank you!
I get dinged every time I say this, but undaunted I go on: the fact is that physics is a relatively “flat” major. There are a core set of classes that are required for grad school entry, and pretty much every college/university has that core built into their physics major. The system is set up so that you can arrive at college with nothing more than HS physics- not even AP- and still get into a Physics PhD program*. A larger school, where there are more upper-level classes can have advantages, but the real key is research. A good physics program will have research opportunities available for reasonably motivated first year students.
Self-studying physics APs is not only useless from an admissions point of view, it really won’t help you much as a physics major: it is exceptionally unlikely that you can master the material well enough on your own to make it worth trying to be exempted from major requirements. That’s because those classes are such a critical foundation for upper level classes. You might be so naturally gifted that physics comes to you easily- I have met a couple of people like that- but they are passing rare.
Moreover, if you really love physics, then there are many ways to engage with it that are both more interesting and more useful than self-studying APs. Did you read the article @DadTwoGirls recommended? It is actual advice directly from an MIT admissions person (who is still there, and pops onto CC occasionally):
Read it, believe it, live it!
*True story: Collegekid2 arrived at a moderately selective LAC (better known for arts than sciences) w/ just Honors Physics, majored in physics, and is now in a top-10 PhD program. Getting top grades in your major and- especially- research experience is what does it (apply for summer research by December of first year!)
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Thank you so much!
Thank you for your help! If possible, what are some alternative ways to get more involved in physics? I’ve had difficulty finding physics-related extracurricular activities within my school. Thanks again!
First thing is always to find the truest thing: think about what you find interesting in physics - what has you thinking that you would like to make a career in physics research? the more you think that through the better able you will be to identify opportunities and ask for help.
Then, start with the easiest thing: talk to your physics teacher! what does s/he know about physics opportunities in your area? who does s/he know who might be able to help?
Have you looked at the Physics Olympiads? You may not have enough of a physics background to compete at a high level, but you learn a lot as you participate, and you will meet a lot of people, including interested adults. Some of those adults may be able to help you identify other activities available in your region.
Are you near enough to a university that you could do a research internship? I’m not going to pretend that it’s easy for a HS student to do that, but it is not impossible!
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Thank you so much for your help!
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