<p>I've heard this topic discussed in the High School Life forum, but I'd like some more reliable answers. Does freshman/sophomore course rigor really matter, and, if so, can rigorous junior/senior years make up for it?</p>
<p>Freshman and sophomores rarely have much control over their over their courses, but to the extent they do, they should take the harder version of courses when available, e,g, honors/advanced vs. regular. Not because colleges care, but because it sets them up to take the harder courses junior and senior year. Also, better teachers, not to mention the better students are usually found in the tougher classes, so you usually learn more as more ground is covered at a faster pace and the teacher spends less time disciplining the class or dealing with remedial issues.</p>
<p>If APs are available, of course you should take them, if only to drive up your AP count, but also to lessen the amount you have to take junior and senior year if you’re trying to hit that magic 6-8 AP count. Starting with one or two APs sophomore year also helps a student understand what is required and lessens the shock of taking 3-4 APs junior year.</p>
<p>Can you take fluff your first two years and make up for it in the last two? Sometimes, but you rarely see it happen, or rather, it rarely happens successfully. Doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and colleges would certainly welcome it, but starting junior year is certainly better than the usual senior year panic, which really doesn’t work for impressing colleges.</p>