Blog: AP vs IB

Last year I was sick. Over the course of one semester, I had H1N1, the stomach flu, bronchitis, a sinus infection, and severe asthma problems. But, I wasn’t just physically sick. I was sick of being tired and not having time for myself and being stressed out. I was so stressed out that it affected me physically and was a major contributor to these illnesses. I was involved in a lot last year and didn’t want as high a level of stress anymore.

So, during second semester of last year, I removed myself from the International Baccalaureate program. In simpler terms, I became an IB dropout similar to popular singer-songwriter Ke$ha. Speaking from the point-of-view of someone who is intimately connected with both programs, I feel that I can offer a unique perspective.

Many colleges look at the IB and AP programs equally, so people tend to think that they’re identical. They are not. In food terms, IB is the whole menu. You’ve got to eat it all. You have to do everything – community service, rigorous coursework, additional classes, and more, in order to succeed. But the benefit is that people see you- or should see you- as the whole package. If you are the recipient of an IB diploma, everyone should know that you excel.

In contrast, AP is the a la carte menu. If you’re not that hungry, you don’t have the time to stay and eat a full meal, or you just want to be able to choose a little more  – AP may be right for you. You can still take advanced classes, many of which are equally or more time-consuming and difficult than their IB counterparts, but you can choose those classes which you know you enjoy and can do well in. I weighed these options myself and chose the IB program – the decision that I thought was right for me at the time.

I can’t say that I choose wrong. Because I didn’t. I would have felt that I had missed out on a big opportunity if I hadn’t at least tried IB. The program taught me good study skills and the bonds I made with those in the program haven’t broken- and I doubt they ever will. It was amazing to be a part of such a close-knit group of people and I have learned how to better help and guide those around me through the support of others in the program.

I have an inordinate amount of respect for those who decide to do either IB or AP, but I have more respect for those people that choose the right thing for themselves. The entire experience has taught me how to make a good decision for myself. Though I did seek input, neither my parents, friends, or teachers had a say in my final decision and I’ve found strength in that. It’s not about which program you choose – it’s about finding out what makes you happy and what keeps you on the course you want to be on.

Dropping out of the IB program to pursue a music career was Ke$ha’s dream, so she did it. It’s not what she is that makes her a good example. It’s that she kept with her goal and eventually became what she personally, wanted to be. Though it’s taken me a while to find my path and I still don’t have all the kinks ironed out, I now know that I’m making decisions that are leading me in the right direction. I can still change my mind a million more times and go a different way, but for now, I’m doing what makes me happy and keeping an open mind.