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Benjamin
Student
McKinney, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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Should I take a test to eliminate foreign languages entirely using my second language for credits?
So, I will be going into the 8th Grade soon and I really need some advice:
Should I take a test to eliminate foreign languages entirely using my second language?
Why I am asking: I recently spoke with a family-friend of mine who was accepted by Yale University and she gave me some advice but I still had some questions. Because in my school, Spanish 1, 2, and 3 are all considered "on-level" which can hurt my weighted GPA. And after that, Spanish 4 and 5 are considered AP classes. I am also a United States resident so Spanish might be important to learn.
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1 answer
Sijoy Sagar
Program Manager
30
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sijoy’s Answer
Hi Benjamin,
Thanks for reaching out with such a smart and thoughtful question as you plan for high school and beyond. Taking a test to earn credits in your second language can be helpful, but dropping foreign languages may not always be the best choice.
Things to Consider:
1. College Admissions: Top colleges often like students who study foreign languages for several years. It shows dedication, cultural understanding, and strong academics.
2. Weighted GPA: You are right that regular Spanish classes might not boost your GPA like AP courses. Testing out could let you take higher-level or AP classes sooner, which can help your GPA.
3. Spanish in the U.S.: Spanish is widely spoken and can be a big advantage in careers like medicine, law, business, and public service. Even basic skills can make you stand out.
4. Balance: If you are already good in your second language, earning credits through a test can be smart. But continuing with Spanish can offer both academic and real-world benefits.
Advice:
If you test out, think about using the extra time to take AP Spanish or another advanced class to boost your GPA.
Think long-term: Colleges often like to see at least 3–4 years of foreign language study.
Don't just focus on GPA, think about skills that will help in college and life. Spanish could be one of those.
My Personal Advice and Encouragement for You - It's great that you are already thinking like a college applicant in 8th grade. Whether you test out or continue with Spanish, make sure your choices match your academic goals and personal interests. If you enjoy languages, keep studying them. If you want to focus on other advanced courses, testing out could be a smart move. Wishing you all the best in your future!
Thanks for reaching out with such a smart and thoughtful question as you plan for high school and beyond. Taking a test to earn credits in your second language can be helpful, but dropping foreign languages may not always be the best choice.
Things to Consider:
1. College Admissions: Top colleges often like students who study foreign languages for several years. It shows dedication, cultural understanding, and strong academics.
2. Weighted GPA: You are right that regular Spanish classes might not boost your GPA like AP courses. Testing out could let you take higher-level or AP classes sooner, which can help your GPA.
3. Spanish in the U.S.: Spanish is widely spoken and can be a big advantage in careers like medicine, law, business, and public service. Even basic skills can make you stand out.
4. Balance: If you are already good in your second language, earning credits through a test can be smart. But continuing with Spanish can offer both academic and real-world benefits.
Advice:
If you test out, think about using the extra time to take AP Spanish or another advanced class to boost your GPA.
Think long-term: Colleges often like to see at least 3–4 years of foreign language study.
Don't just focus on GPA, think about skills that will help in college and life. Spanish could be one of those.
My Personal Advice and Encouragement for You - It's great that you are already thinking like a college applicant in 8th grade. Whether you test out or continue with Spanish, make sure your choices match your academic goals and personal interests. If you enjoy languages, keep studying them. If you want to focus on other advanced courses, testing out could be a smart move. Wishing you all the best in your future!
Thank you so much for reaching out and providing me a fresh perspective! I hadn't really thought about my life after college. Thank you!
Benjamin