As May approaches, many juniors at MHS find themselves buried under review books, practice questions, and late-night study sessions. Advanced Placement (AP) exams, often seen as gateways into college and academic success, are becoming a major source of stress and anxiety, impacting not just GPAs, but students’ everyday lives.
For many juniors, the pressure of studying starts weeks or even months before exam day. Balancing multiple AP classes means juggling several heavy workloads all at once. It is not uncommon for students to spend hours each night reviewing content, leaving little time for sleep, extracurricular activities, or even relaxing.
Greta Norman, a junior taking three AP classes, says that exam prep has significantly disrupted her routine. She relies on AP Classroom, Heimler’s History on YouTube, and detailed notes– altogether studying a total of 14 hours a week.
Despite this approach, anxiety remains high. “Whenever I’m not studying, I feel guilty,” Norman said. She explains how her biggest challenge isn’t the material, but actually staying motivated under constant pressure. She also emphasizes that taking thorough, organized notes throughout the year is essential, as it makes reviewing for AP exams far more manageable and reduces her stress levels when test season arrives.
Spencer Hammond, a junior currently taking four AP classes, describes a routine that has become increasingly demanding. He explains that he has been preparing by completing assigned review work, going over previous units, and working with a tutor to stay on track. While these strategies certainly help, the pressure has intensified as exams get closer. “I feel more stressed now than earlier in the year because the amount of time I have to study is quickly decreasing,” Hammond said.
This sense of urgency is common among juniors, many of whom feel like the clock is working against them. With multiple exams scheduled within a short time frame, students often struggle to divide their attention across subjects.
Beyond time constraints, external expectations also play a significant role in student stress. Hammond notes that while he wants to perform well to meet his own goals, pressure from others adds another layer. This combination of academic pressure and personal expectations can lead to burnout. Students report feeling exhausted during the school day, struggling to focus in class, and sacrificing social activities in order to keep up with studying demands.
However, some educators emphasize the importance of balance. Effective study strategies, time management, and taking breaks can make a significant difference in reducing stress. Without these, students risk becoming overwhelmed at a time when focus and clarity are most important. As AP exams draw closer, the conversation around stress and students’ mental health becomes increasingly important. While these exams can open doors, they should not come at the cost of students’ overall health. For many juniors, finding that balance may be the real test.
