Dear Tiger Talk,
What is the best, AP, CIS, or PSEO?
Sincerely,
Driven Dolly
Dear Driven Dolly,
It depends on what your goal is! All can be great options and we can give you some basic ideas of what each of these classes can be like but we also suggest that you talk with your counselor and the CCC about which would be the best fit for you.
AP is a harder course than a regular level class but technically is high school level with a big exam at the end of the year that you can take if you choose. The test is graded 1-5, a 3 or above being a passing grade. If you pass the exam, colleges may take that score and give you credit for a class that you are required to take to graduate college. In my experience, AP classes have a heavier classwork and homework load but if you are willing to put in the work, it is worth it to take because they look really good on your transcript.
PSEO is essentially you take college classes while being enrolled in high school. There are a few options relating to your schedule with PSEO classes depending on what courses you are taking and what credits you need to graduate. PSEO is a great, flexible option if you have the motivation to be in college classes and get out of your comfort zone. It can get you ahead academically for college as well as help you financially because it is free and you won’t have to pay for those courses in college.
CIS is kind of a mix of AP and PSEO, basically a college course you take at South. You are technically enrolled at the University of Minnesota through CIS, and you are guaranteed the college credit unless you do not meet the attendance requirements and do not pass the class. CIS is another great option because it can be way more accessible than PSEO and you are still getting ahead and possibly saving money.
In general, make sure to take advantage of these options and chat with your counselor to find the best choice for you.
Best of luck,
Tiger Talk
Dear Tiger Talk,
I have an average gpa, I do sports, extracurriculars, do some AP classes, but I am a generally of average intelligence. I’m worried I won’t score good enough on my SATS/ACTS, and because my grades are average I won’t be able to get scholarships. I do not want to go to community college or stay in state, but with all this piling against me, I am deeply unsure and very stressed about this. Do you have any suggestions or ideas?
Sincerely,
Unsure Ursula
Dear Unsure Ursula,
The first thing I will say is don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Second, don’t downplay your intelligence, especially when thinking about and applying to colleges and scholarships.
While the whole process of applying can be scary, the best thing to do is to be true to yourself. For the ACT and SAT, there are plenty of schools that are test optional if you don’t feel the best about your score and if they require your scores, the rest of your application can often make up for it, just focus on your essay and highlighting your extracurriculars.
As a junior, you have quite a bit of time to prepare and weigh your options. Definitely try to go on college visits and get ahead on your essays if you can but don’t forget to do other things you enjoy during the process. The most important thing to remember is that the counselors and staff want you to succeed so make sure you are asking for the help and resources you need!
Trustingly,
Tiger Talk
Dear Tiger Talk,
What do I do if someone keeps offering me condoms but I’m a lesbian??
Sincerely,
Sapphic Sandy
Dear Sapphic Sandy,
This is a tough situation. Either if this is a friend or someone who has a weird way of confessing their feelings for you, the most important thing is communicating your boundaries. If you are uncomfortable with this person offering you condoms then the best course of action is to tell them directly. Though it may be hard at times communication tends to be the most effective way of dealing with conflict. Good luck Sapphic Sandy! Tiger out! #grr #wuhluhwuh #ilovegrrrrrrrrrrrls #theyregrrrrrrrrreat
