In addition to the inherent fast pace of the Spring Term at Kent, students are troubled by the upcoming AP exams. Each lasting a few hours, the exams loom heavily over all who plan to take them. On that note, everyone is anticipating an action-filled, busy last indicator of the year. 

Students take APs for various reasons: some made the decision to obtain credit for their college careers, some wish to prove their academic abilities, and some even take exams in subjects they don’t study at school to expand their knowledge. Interestingly, the majority, if not all, of the students who will take the AP English Language and Composition exam did not learn English as their first language. 

To prepare for the APs, some test-takers who value academic excellence purchase extra tutoring; some spend hours devouring a textbook, such as that on American History, in preparation for APUSH.

One thing everyone has in common is stress, though people deal with it in various ways. One student claims that they handle stress by “enjoying the beautiful weather outside and hanging out with friends.” Another makes time for mock exams to grasp a sense of how difficult they will be.

Some AS-level courses at Kent exceed the range and scope of the AP, and students greatly appreciate the high academic rigor that makes the APs a piece of cake. However, not all exams are easy compared to the Kent curriculum. APUSH, for example, requires a thorough grasp of American history and is ranked one of the most challenging exams offered by the College Board.

In addition to the APs, the College Board provides SAT testing, an assessment that is becoming increasingly relevant for sophomores and juniors. On April 19, all the sophomores who didn’t have a test score on file yet took an SAT diagnostic, and the overall feedback emphasized that it was very challenging.

As the school year nears a close, Kent students approach these academic challenges with dedication and optimism.