AP Chemistry, Psychology

Chemistry: If you have a love for chemistry or are looking into medical majors in college, it would behoove you to take chemistry. But be prepared because Dr. Hazan does not take this class lightly. She has titled the AP as “the hardest class in the school.” She is a tough grader and “treats it like a college class,” according to Michael Seitz, a current AP Chem student. The homework is typically around twenty questions with multiple sections, but she gives everyone a week to complete them. As long as you space it out and manage the time, it is possible to complete, but be aware there is no “leeway” in the due dates (except for extenuating circumstances). Although Dr. Hazan is strict, she is considered “the best teacher in Walt Whitman” by many of her students, particularly student Brenda Mendez, who had her for both Honors Chemistry and AP Chem a year later. It is also important to note the material itself is difficult but rewarding. If you believe AP Chem is the class for you, go ahead and take it. It is sure to be fascinating and you will end up with a thorough understanding of the subject, just be aware that it will require time and effort (like any AP requires) to get to that point.

Psychology: To many people matters of the mind seem enthralling and will drive them to seek out AP Psych as their elective of choice. For those who are ready to take that step, a bit of background information about the course will be enlightening. AP Psychology is taught by Mr. Farrell and revolves largely around the previous night’s homework. As an alternate day course, the homework can be completed over the span of two days, but will take a couple hours to complete. Much of the homework is defining and applying definitions from the textbook to real-life situations. In class, Mr. Farrell reviews the material by providing a more in-depth view/ explanation of the term in an entertaining manner. Former student Joanne Nguyen testifies that it is “really an amazing time” and she would love to retake the class just to have Farrell as a teacher yet again. However, do not be caught unprepared for his class because he does give pop quizzes on the homework. Not only that, but he calls on students to read their homework or discuss the term. If no one is willing he will move on, but you will be the one paying for it when test day comes. Speaking of tests, they are all situation-based so do not expect straight definitions. Use the links on his eboard to find questions similar to his, but you will need a firm grasp on the terms to recognize them in his examples. By the time the actual AP comes around, it will seem like a breeze compared to Mr. Farrell’s tests. AP Psych is definitely a course you should take during high school due to its interesting subject material and wonderful teacher.