I’m a rising senior, and I’m going to have an open period during second semester next year. My schedule has 6 AP classes (one of them is only one semester) and Orchestra. I have a really demanding sports schedule, so I was hoping to use that time to practice my cello and do homework. Will it look lazy if I have an open period senior year? I’ll definitely use that time, it just won’t be official on my transcript. Thanks!
I don’t think it will matter if you had an open period. I had three “off hours” during second semester of my senior year, however, I used most of the time to study for APs. It certainly shouldn’t impact admissions if that’s what you’re worried about.
Where are you trying to go for college? I had 3-4 free periods my senior year and got into a good school. TBH though even if you’re trying to get into Harvard, that’s not going to be the deciding factor, so it’s fine
@soontobecolleger
I’m still undecided, and my list is still rather long: Cornell, Colorado School of Mines, UC-Davis, University of NV-Reno, Boston University, Syracuse, and MIT, among others.
@ski_racer As I said I really doubt that any school will care (even MIT) because they are so much more interested how well you are doing academically plus how you’re spending your time outside of school. Good luck with your senior year! I just graduated last month. You will be so happy when it’s over 
I kept my first period open when I was in high school so I could practice piano more. I think I even mentioned that on my college app. It’s pretty common.
My kids usually had a study hall during their busiest EC season (sports for D1, Robotics for D2). They didn’t have any problems with admissions.
I also took 6 AP’s last year and had an open period. 6 AP’s is extremely rigorous, so I don’t think colleges would consider you lazy in any way.
Heck, no. With all those AP’s, having a period for your cello practice and homework, or even just to eat lunch and hang out with your friends, is important. You have a lot of classes on your schedule, and if they include English, social studies, science, math, and foreign language, no college will think you are missing anything.
@happybird123 @TheGreyKing This has been such a relief. I really need that time but I thought it was going to look bad since my use of it wouldn’t show up anywhere official. Thanks so much for the reassurance!