Please help me with IB course selection!

Student Lounge International Students
1

<p>Hi, I’m a rising junior. I’d appreciate it if you guys can help me with my course seleciton.</p>

<p>This is what’s set so far:
-English HL
-Math HL
-Econ HL</p>

<p>Not set so far:
-Chinese SL/HL?
-[Chem SL and Psych SL]
or
-[Physics SL and History SL]</p>

<li><p>I took what’s equivalent of Chinese SL Year 1 in my sophomore year. I’m hesitant to take Year 2 in my junior year because I don’t feel quite ready for the upcoming exam. Taking SL Year 1 in my junior year (which is kind of repeating) might look bad because I got a 5 on my AP Chinese test in my freshman year already. Taking HL level might be too hard. I know it really depends on my skills but I’d like some advice.</p></li>
<li><p>Due to schedule conflict, I have to choose between the two aforementioned options. Choosing the former (psych and chem) would allow me to get a better gradesand a chance to take SAT II Chem which I’ve heard is easier than Physics. However, the latter (history and psych) constists of harder but more “established” subjects, if you know what I mean. It will be harder for me to get a better grade with the second option, but I’m guessing it will be looked upon more favorably by colleges since they want students who challenge themselves. Is this correct or do colleges not really care about IB subjects? Besides, I think History would be more “helpful” in life…</p></li>
</ol>

<p>I’d like to have 4 HL, by the way. And I think I’m going to pursue econ/business route. Can you guys help me come up with the best combination?</p>

<p>Cheers</p>

2

<p>I would say go with whatever combination you are comfortable with. Assuming you have had history before, I doubt chem/psych vs physics/history is going to make a difference at all admission-wise - unless your grades suffer! </p>

<p>Btw, I thought the SAT II in physics was easier than the one in chem, but that might have been because I didn't have any chem in the year I took the SAT IIs.</p>

3

<p>Physics HL is a hard subject, trust me. Maths HL is awesome if you're up for it. Chem SL was a joke. I suggest not taking 4 HL's, it's hard and wasn't really worth it. Universities just care that you get the diploma. They won't really give a **** if you have 4 HL's etc. Just choose the subjects that will get you the highest score without compromising on whether they will get you into the programme you want at college.</p>

4

<p>Chem & Psych seems to be the better choice, then. I'm still a bit indecisive because the Physics and History teachers at my school are really good.</p>