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Writer's pictureEsther Low

IB classes or AP classes? - The benefits and differences of both paths

Maddie Voightmann, Junior, AP student, NHS member


My name is Maddie Voightmann and I am a junior in Desert Mountain’s AP program. I was in the MYP pre diploma program during my freshman and sophomore years. I enjoyed the Middle Years Program and all of the benefits it left me with. When taking advice from upperclassmen surrounding which classes to take I always wish I knew what classes they took as an underclassmen so I can compare myself and my skill level to their advice, so I will be sharing my previous class choices for helpful reference.





My Personal Experience

As a freshman I took MYP English H I, MYP World History, MYP Spanish 2 H, physics first, algebra 1, and physical education. During my sophomore year I took MYP English H II, MYPUSH, MYP Spanish 3 H, chemistry, geometry, and dance IV. As you can see during my first two years of high school my strategy was to take the required pre diploma classes while taking the more standard supporting classes and electives. This strategy worked well for me and I feel as though it allowed me to succeed. Now that you can see where I am coming from in terms of my academic choices and opinions, here are my two cents about choosing the AP path or the IB path.


The Debate

In the spring of my sophomore year, I began to debate the tough decision of choosing whether or not to continue on in the IB program. Obviously, as a current AP student I chose not to continue. I had watched my brother persevere through the IB program and the amount of work he was overflowed with made me fear what my life would turn into if I stayed. I feel as though the most important factor in this decision is being realistic with yourself and your work ethic. I am a very hard worker and I would have been fine to continue on, but I wanted to prioritize my mental health and social life.


My IB Experience with Sports

I am a part of Desert Mountain’s Pom Program which is a large commitment, as most high school sports are. I would be waking up at 4:30 am 3 times a week for morning practice while trying to juggle the rigorous course schedule required of the IB program. I knew I would be limited on personal interests and socialization if I stuck with the IB program. I also took into consideration how drained I had become after two years of already being in the pre diploma program. I knew that I couldn’t keep exhausting myself for the two remaining years of my high school experience, and that my energy and ambition would eventually run out.


IB or AP for After High School

I do plan on attending an out of state university, which is very possible without the IB program, but also a little trickier. Colleges may view taking AP classes at DM as the 2nd hardest level of classes rather than taking the most rigorous ones offered at our school. This really affected my decision and I always knew I would have to work very hard to maintain competitive grades in my AP courses in order to secure out of state college acceptances. If you feel as though you can push through IB for all four years realistically, it will be very beneficial in terms of college tuition and competitive school acceptances.


What is best for you?

This decision is not an easy one to make and it should not be taken lightly. The AP route may be easier and allow for more schedule flexibility but the IB route is the most rigorous one offered at our school. The decision really comes down to what you personally want and where you will succeed most.


-Comment your questions and concerns about either route below. If you have already made this decision, share your experience with others down below as well.-


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