As an International Baccalaureate School, North Atlanta High School strives for excellence. The IB program offers a range of rigorous classes that prepare each student to tackle college. Classes included biology, physics, Spanish, French, literature, history, and Theory of Knowledge. Students are able to select their classes at the end of sophomore year, as well as the level of the class. IB classes can be Standard Level or Higher Level, and they differ in workload, extra units, assignments, tests, etc. However, Standard Level classes are still significantly challenging.
This past month sophomores were introduced to IB during an assembly that covered all parameters of the program. The immediate chaos and stress that followed this assembly overwhelmed sophomores. Among the murmurs and groans during the assembly, some sophomores were intrigued and excited, such as sophomore Liza Hagy. “I know it will be difficult, but the assembly actually gave me a lot of clarity,” said Hagy. “I am confident that I will be okay!”
Many sophomores were already made aware of the IB program by hearing about it from friends and family. Although the first word associated with IB is often “awful”, those who graduate with their diploma are beyond grateful that NAHS offered a program that prepared them for the obstacles of college and career. Those who have siblings who did IB are aware of the struggles. Sophomore Heidi Rohrer’s sister, Trista Rohrer, graduated last spring from the IB program. “I am definitely scared to do IB, but Trista assured me that it will all pay off in the end,” said Rohrer. “So, I am ready for whatever obstacles I will be faced with.”
Some students are not only overwhelmed by the realization that the next two years will be significantly difficult, but also by the actual selection of classes. Students are able to select their classes based on their personal best subjects, but students are presented with so many options, which makes it difficult to narrow down their choices. Similar to many other sophomores, Ally Rodts was conflicted between choosing biology or sports science, exercise, and health. “I absolutely loved biology freshman year, but I am also super interested in the concept of sports science, so I have no idea what to pick,” said Rodts.
Ultimately, the support of the assembly alongside friends and family will guide sophomores to greatness. It will be difficult for the fears of each sophomore to fizzle out, but the motivation that the end result will mean success is comforting. Welcome to the world of IB, sophomores!
