<p>My school doesn't offer AP classes, only honors. My first two years, I probably only took one third of the honors classes available. Junior and senior year I will be taking every honors class I can (currently a junior). I am taking 2 AP tests (AP Calc and French since I'm fluent), and will possibly self study for a third. My senior year I'll be taking French and Math at a nearby college, as well as two other college level courses in the school.</p>
<p>My college counselor said he would check off "most demanding" for my course load if I take all the classes I said I would.</p>
<p>How will my first 2 years affect my chances for colleges like Northwestern or Cornell. Should I even consider applying?</p>
<p>Yes, you should apply, assuming your GPA and SAT/ACTS stats are in the ball park of these highly selective schools … if you are taking courses that are the strongest that your school offers and your counselor believes you are taking the strongest course load available, then you are doing everything in your power to learn and be ready for the coursework of a challenging university.</p>
<p>My problem is my first two years I didn’t take the hardest classes available (with the exception of math and maybe a few honors courses at most). There were plenty more honors classes I could have taken but didn’t.</p>
<p>My Junior and Senior year will be as rigorous as possible, and counselor will check off most demanding (not sure how much that matters). </p>
<p>Just thought I would try to be a bit more clear. Thanks for the replies so far.</p>
<p>Also, is it worth self studying an AP or taking a college course over the summer in my case?</p>
<p>No, use your summer to develop yourself more broadly … a sport, a trip, a musical instrument, volunteering, socializing, a summer job, bonding w/ family.</p>