The choice between Honors and AP classes represents a major decision point for students. Multiple factors affect students’ choices regarding the workload from a class, the learning environment, and personal preferences and growth. 

Sophomore Euel particularly notes how AP classes can have a significant impact on future aspirations and goals. “I think AP classes are a little more substantial because they give you like a lot more information that you’re not necessarily like just going to keep in high school, but you might use as you go on in your life, like if you want to major in something certain,” Lishan explained. This demonstrates how AP classes can align with student future careers and  goals.

Najee Elfiki, a senior, remarks on the difference in participation and commitment between both types of classes. “I think in AP classes people actually want to be there and they want to learn the topic itself, so there’s more like a willingness to actually participate and enjoy the class.” The contrast between both Honors and AP classes can illustrate the difference in commitment students may have for particular classes, depending on coursework and rigor.

Beyond the rigor, students like Yem Ermias see Honors and AP classes as vital tools for career exploration and future goals. “I want to go into healthcare, so I picked a lot of health classes and I did my CNA course to help jumpstart that. I also work with people a lot, so I think it’s important to also think about what you want to do in the future and kind of mold your schedule to that.” Ultimately, both types of classes serve as a “jumpstart” for carriers and professional goals students have outside of school.

The choice between both types of classes comes down to the academic commitment and stress tolerance. Sophomore Emma Morris noted “I think sometimes AP classes can be overhyped because you don’t need all of them, but also I think they are oftentimes harder than college classes, so it’s a good step up in advancement before you actually get to college.” Her perspective highlights how AP classes can be a big leap to take for many students, but help prepare students for academic rigor in college.

While AP classes are widely known for their rigor, Junior Brita Anderson argues how AP classes are easier as they are tailored towards preparation for a national exam. “Honors can be harder content-wise because it’s a whole year, but AP classes, once the AP test is over, they are really easy.” This demonstrates how AP classes are primarily focused on preparing for the national exam, while Honors classes are tailored to teaching students advanced topics and ideas. 

At Eagan High School, the choice between Honors and AP classes at Eagan High school depends on which path fits a student’s academic growth and journey. Ultimately, it’s clear that both Honors and AP classes deliver rigorous, high-quality educational experiences for students at Eagan High School.