Fluff Classes

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Craigb21

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Would USNA look down upon an applicant taking a class like economics or business as opposed to a second math or science course? I will be taking BC Calculus AP and AP Chemistry next (senior) year.
 
The academy says a b in an honors class is better than an a in a regular. Taking the extra effort classes shows dedication and commitment.
 
Craigb21 said:
Would USNA look down upon an applicant taking a class like economics or business as opposed to a second math or science course? I will be taking BC Calculus AP and AP Chemistry next (senior) year.
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If it's truly an economics course and not "home economics" (do they have that anymore?) then I wouldn't see anything wrong with it.... but then I wouldn't consider that a fluff course either... so I suspect it's something else. If it's "how to manage your checkbook", don't bother.
 
Craigb21 said:
Would USNA look down upon an applicant taking a class like economics or business as opposed to a second math or science course? I will be taking BC Calculus AP and AP Chemistry next (senior) year.
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What else are you planning to take senior year? I don't think economics or business are exactly "fluff" classes (I think of cooking, ceramics, etc). AP Calc BC & AP Chem are definitely good classes to take senior year, plus I'm assuming you're taking English and Government. Ideally you should take the hardest classes your school offers, focusing on STEM, but realistically understanding what you can handle (don't take 5 AP classes sr year if you've never taken one before). If the rest of your schedule is strong, you should be ok.
 
Pima - here they call that "Family & Consumer Science".

To the OP - if your core classes (English, Math, Science, History) are all honors or AP then I would think business would be fine. It's nice to take a senior elective you enjoy. My DS is taking R&D Engineering and it's his favorite part of the day.

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At my son's school AP Calc BC is just a semester course. IMO you've proved yourself in math so perhaps you should fill some time with a computer class. You are trying to prep yourself for the plebe academics: http://www.usna.edu/Academics/Majors-and-Courses/Course-Requirements.php. If your school doesn't offer computer classes (or you've taken them all), why not create a CyberPatriot team and do an independent study course? That's what my son had to do this year. An AP/IB history class is always good too.

Coming from a STEM mindset for a "fluff" class I'd try to take something that you could validate that isn't a STEM course. This link has info on validating courses in case you haven't looked into it. http://www.usna.edu/Academics/Candidate-Information/Course-Validation.php I do think that taking any class is better than having a free period. You can always be a TA - this could be good for you to do for AP Calc AB in case your BC class is also only a semester long. Shows a bit of leadership and keeps your skills fresh.
 
It's all about balance. You are taking the two biggies. Like mentioned earlier make sure you have English and Social Studies (government). Econ is a good solid course when taking with your core courses. Language never hurts.


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