<p>So, after finishing this year, I will be through with all of the courses my school has to offer in the realm of physics. I am taking AP Physics C: Mech and E & M, and I am a junior.</p>
<p>Now, a NORMAL student would have settled for something like AP Stats or something. Crazy old me, wanting to go farther with physics - it is what intend to major in - contacted the science department chair asking him if there was any way I could go farther with my physics education while still in high school. </p>
<p>Post-AP Phys, he gave me the following choices. </p>
<ol>
<li><p>Take two college courses on modern physics at community college. This includes stuff like thermal physics, special relativity, introductions to quantum physics, fun with heisenberg and schrodinger, etc, etc.</p></li>
<li><p>Become the TA to probably one of the best teachers at my school. For AP Physics C. </p></li>
</ol>
<p>The dilenma: Obviously both options are extremely lucrative. I'm sure option 1 would teach me quite a bit more than option 2, but option 2 is a fantastic opportunity nonetheless and I would end up with a very, VERY good knowledge of mechanics and E & M going into college. Plus, it's Mr. fricking K. He's like...the greatest teacher ever. </p>
<p>wahhhhh i don't know what to do. </p>
<p>Any advice? Even just from an adcom perspective, what would look better on a college app? What would be better for me on the whole?</p>
<p>Sounds like you’d really like to do option 2, so I’d vote for that. It sounds like a fabulous opportunity and would give you a chance to really shine in ways that the the community college class wouldn’t. Remember, it’s not really the opportunity itself that’s going to impress ad-coms, it’s what you do with the opportunity.</p>
<p>Alright, the new caveat that was added today: </p>
<p>The TA will be for no high school credit. </p>
<p>I really don’t know how this will affect my transcript or anything; but i guess my greatest concern is that colleges will see “free period” and will give me the “free rejection letter” in return. </p>
<p>though, if i choose that, which is pretty probable, i’m going to get one hell of a teacher rec.</p>
<p>You are going to explain the “free period” either in an essay or elsewhere in your common app. Plus you will have a recommendation explaining it too. You will be fine.</p>
<p>Yeah, I think the unique and intellectual nature of your “free period”, coupled with an in-depth explanation from a teacher with whom you have a very strong relationship, turns the TA-ing option into a powerhouse of a unique activity. I’d go for it.</p>
<p>Free periods do not kill admissions chances. Many high school seniors in extremely fine schools have free periods. The TA sounds pretty neat and you would learn a lot working one on one with your favorite teacher. The logistics of getting back and forth tithe CC can be a pain in the behind. Good luck.</p>