Here at Issaquah High School, the culture of Advanced Placement (AP) classes is as ingrained as
Friday night football games. Students dive headfirst into a whirlwind of honors and AP courses,
often loading their schedules with more rigor than a caffeine-fueled all-nighter can handle. This
academic arms race is normalized here, where taking multiple AP classes feels less like an
achievement and more like a rite of passage. While this pursuit of excellence is admirable, it
comes with a hefty price tag: stress and burnout.
Junior Lachlan Maggs describes his experience clearly. “I enjoy the challenges in my classes, but
it can be overwhelming. The workload from my AP classes often keeps me up late studying,
which affects my sleep.” Lachlan feels the pressure to balance academic responsibilities with
social activities, a common struggle among his peers. Sophomore Lincoln Barnard notes the
competitive atmosphere. “Everyone here is trying to get into good colleges, and it feels like we
have to be perfect. In my honors classes, it is not just about understanding the material; it is
about being the best. It would be nice to focus on learning without the pressure,” he explains.
Freshman Michelle Nguyen reflects on her transition from middle school. “I thought high school
would be more relaxed, but it is much more intense. I am taking a few advanced classes, and
keeping up has been tough. There is a strong sense of needing to prove myself,” she says,
highlighting the importance of support from friends and teachers.
For seniors, the pressure mounts as graduation approaches. Senior Aarushi Katyal shares her
perspective. “I have been in AP classes since sophomore year, and while I have learned a lot, it is
exhausting. Balancing college applications, senior projects, and regular schoolwork is
overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like I am just going through the motions,” she admits. The
anxiety about future plans often overshadows the joy of learning.
Issaquah High’s academic culture reflects a broader trend across Washington state, where
students are pushed to excel. Educators advocate for rigorous programs, believing they prepare
students for the challenges of college. Yet this approach can create a high-pressure environment
that strains mental health. The stressors of high school extend beyond academics; social
dynamics and the pressure to fit in further complicate matters. Nguyen emphasizes the
importance of balance. “Taking care of your mental health is crucial. Supporting each other is
important, and grades are not everything,” she states, reminding her peers to prioritize wellbeing. As students navigate this challenging landscape, educators and parents at Issaquah High
School must recognize signs of stress and provide essential support. Initiatives that promote
mental health awareness, foster a supportive school culture, and encourage open discussions
about academic pressure can make a significant difference for the entire student body.
In a community that prizes academic achievement, students are much more than their grades.
The experiences of students across the school highlight the importance of finding balance in a
demanding environment. As they continue their educational journeys, the collective narrative
serves as a reminder that while rigor and excellence matter, mental health and well-being deserve
equal attention. Addressing these concerns can lead to a healthier, more supportive atmosphere
where students can thrive both academically and personally.