Making it through AP exams

As I sat in my room going on my third hour of studying for the day, I wondered to myself, “Is this really worth it?”
Then, I closed my Lawrence Woodmere Academy (LWA)-issued Advanced Placement U.S. History review book, hopped into bed and put on my new favorite series, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” My conclusion to discontinue studying stemmed from a multitude of things that led up to that moment.
First, I realized how hard I worked over the course of the year in my classroom and how I excelled on every test, essay and assigned homework. If I knew the material then, then why shouldn’t I know it now?
Second, I am resolved that one test does not define how well I know the material. College admissions will see what an outstanding job I have done throughout the year. Even if I do not receive college credit for my work, the colleges will see that I have challenged myself by taking an upper level class at LWA.
Third and most importantly, I ceased studying because I was just shy of going insane. I was so obsessed with scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 on the exam that on the night before the big day, I was about to stay up all night studying.

There is an overwhelming amount of pressure put on kids to do well on these standardized tests. Whether it be an AP, SAT and ACT, etc., remaining sane is more important than scoring a 2400, 5, or a 36. This wave of pressure is inevitable, but by accepting that it is OK to earn a less than perfect score, the pressure and stress can easily be alleviated.
Now that I have finished taking both my AP tests, a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders. They were not as bad as everyone made them out to be. I don’t know if I felt this way because of the preparation from my teachers or because the College Board decided to be nice this year. Either way, I am proud to say I made it through AP exams alive and well.

Rose will be a senior at LWA next fall.