Should I risk it all to get an A?

Applying to College
1

I’m in my first semester of my Junior year of high school, and have As in all my classes with the exception of AP Chem, where I have a B+. Due to an organization error, my teacher decided to make our final optional, so I can either take the final in a few days (over my winter break) to try and get an A-, or just relax and opt not to take it and be satisfied with my B+.

Should I study for it, and try and take it at the risk of possibly getting a slightly lower grade (it counts for 20%)?

The real question is; Will colleges care that I have B+ on my transcript? I don’t plan on going into any science or medical field.

I’m also concerned because I haven’t gotten a B since 6th grade, and I’m worried that this could suggest some sort of downward trend to admissions officers. Also I’m only taking two other APs this year, so my schedule isn’t that rigorous to begin with. I plan on applying to fairly selective schools, so I’m worried this’ll hurt my chances.

2

I would study hard, and take the final. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you did your very best. Also, the increased mastery of the material will help you achieve the top score on the AP test at the end of the year.

3

If your school uses plus or minus grades, take it easy. If not, take the final.

4

Take the final! Fight to get the A.

5

I don’t think one B+ will be the reason you don’t get in anywhere.

6

Update-- I did not take the final, got my first B+ ever in five years. No one else in the entire school opted to take it, the study guide alone scared everyone away.