CFNN Editor Abel Santiago-Jose

The AP exam season is not to be taken lightly. It is a season of stressful nights dedicated solely to trying to memorize every little detail about an AP class. Let’s be clear here: AP season is a nightmare. But it’s a nightmare your student chose, so now he or she is left with having to deal with the pressure. Here’s how YOU (yes, YOU) can help your student/child during exam season.

“It’s What You Signed Up For”

WE KNOW. Yes, we know we signed up for it, but with all things in life there comes regret, and there is no bigger regret than an AP class during senior year. Your student will be battling senioritis while also trying to lock in for their exam. Juniors are also susceptible to the stress of AP season, but seniors take priority today because seniors rule and juniors drool. I don’t make the rules; I simply state them for the world to know.

These conflicting feelings between senioritis and studying will result in possible outbursts, occasional smashing of their head on the nearest wall, guaranteed crying, and an excessive consumption of a caffeine product. Keep in mind these are only the most common effects. If your child does something out of the ordinary, trust that it is necessary for their success. If they ask for an Alani or Monster drink at 11 in the afternoon, GET THEM THAT DRINK.

“Relax”

Do not EVER say these words to your AP student during exam season. Relaxing is the last thing they will be thinking about. Instead, just encourage them. Even the smallest words of encouragement can go a long way. Bringing them a snack, a water bottle, or something of the like can mean the world to your student. Don’t make them too relaxed, though. You want your student to maintain that passion they have for the exam and not crave relaxation just yet. 

“The Breakdown”

In the life of an AP student, the likelihood of a possible breakdown is almost guaranteed. There will be a point in their late night studying that they want to give up. They will go to the extreme and say they want to drop out. Some may even say they won’t go to college. 

Be sympathetic toward your child. Your AP student is too stressed to be blessed, but it’s not the end of the world. Keep encouraging them to do their best. If their studying gets to a point where they simply can’t go on, then let them rest. Remind them that a good night of sleep is better than staying up late studying. 

“Post-Exam” 

This would be the easiest part of the whole AP season: the end. No more stress, no more late nights studying, and no more overconsumption of caffeine. Just a regular, still worrisome amount of caffeine consumption. Do not bombard them with questions about everything. If they want to talk about the exams, TRUST that they will talk a LOT. 

Take your student out for a treat. It can be something as small as a trip to Crumbl that makes your student feel that much better. While exams may be over, there’s still the looming day when scores come out on July 7th. Try to keep their mind off of that thought until the day of, but be sure to celebrate when their scores do come out, regardless of what score they got.   

TLDR; GET THEM THEIR ALANI NO QUESTIONS ASKED PLEASE AND THANK YOU.