Pass/Fail Option

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

<p>Because of the way my schedule worked out this year (i go to a public high school), I was only able to take Honors Spanish three days a week (the other two days are my honors physics labs). I am getting all As on tests and quizzes, but because my Spanish teachers counts participation as a large part of our grades, she told me that she's very hesitant to give me an A or above in the class. My other classes are APs, and in my previous freshman/sophomore courses I received all A+s and a few As. If I get below an A in this Spanish class, it will significantly lower my GPA. </p>

<p>My counselor is urging me to take this course pass/fail so that I don't ruin my chances for valedictorian. She says she would write that I was taking the class 3 days a week (and still doing A level work) in her recommendation to colleges. Still, I'm concerned that the competitive schools I want to apply to (Harvard, Yale, Wharton) would frown at a "P" on my transcript. Any thoughts or suggestions?</p>

2

<p>you worry too much. Harvard will see that you are #1 in the class. I don't see them frowning on that!</p>

3

<p>The only problem with taking it P/F would be that colleges would see it as an "easy out" or a slacker way to keep up being val. But if your counselor explains that that is not the case...then don't worry. Most people would have dropped out of the class if they could only take it 3 times a week...you didn't, you worked harder and still got an A (minus participation). I think it might actually help you.</p>

4

<p>thanks guys :)</p>