I’m an incoming sophomore in a competitive high school. I have a 4.0 weighted and 4.79 unweighted GPA. I am trying to decide whether I should continue to take band or take a class called independent research. Here are the pros to each class
Band:
It will be easier to maintain my 4.0 bcuz band is an easier class
Band and Independent Research are both 5.0 classes, and since band is easier, I’m getting the same GPA for less effort
I am passionate about my instrument and want to continue it through high school to demonstrate my commitment and dedication
Independent Research:
Independent research is a class that makes ur transcript stand out because independent research sounds compelling
If i don’t take independent research now, i won’t be able to do it until 12th grade because 11th grade is tough with all the AP classes and standardized tests going on.
Anyways, bottom line, I’m scared that I might lose the 4.0 if i take Independent research because its a lot of work
How would each choice effect my college admissions?
Take band now and independent research in the 12th grade.
You love your instrument and research done in senior year will be taken more seriously than in the 10tg grade.
Unless you play the tuba or French horn, chances of making good on band are slim. I would find a way to play your instrument outside of school, so you can still add all the years of studying to your activities. I’d take the research. You only have grades 9,10 and 11 to put on your common app if you are applying (and most do) ED 1.
Admissions won’t care which one you take, so take the one that interests you more.
OP has not indicated a target school, so while there may be a college that is an exception, most applicants do not apply ED. Regardless, while the grades received in the Fall of Senior year will not be a part of the admissions decision for applicants applying ED, the classes taken that year most certainly appear on the Common App.