As spring approaches, students at NHP enter one of the most grueling times the school year has to offer: AP testing. With mere weeks left until the first of the exams, classrooms transition away from introducing new material and instead focus on revisiting, refining, and solidifying content and concepts that students spent months learning. At the same time, these students are balancing heavy workloads, extracurriculars and the pressure to perform well, as these exams can potentially impact their future. The pressure is real, but so is the sense of purpose. AP season, while stressful, creates a shared experience among students at NHP, defined by late-night studying, collaborative effort and the quiet determination to succeed.
“I usually work with my friends to make study guides,” senior Saman Naqvi said.
At NHP, AP readiness takes shape through a combination of structured classroom preparation and independent student effort. In many classes, teachers are guiding students through practice exams, timed essays and targeted review sessions that mirror the format of the actual tests. In AP Language and Composition, for example, Ms. Caruso has her students completing APUSH-themed presentations and research essays designed to reinforce major course themes. These assignments push students beyond memorization, requiring them to analyze historical patterns, synthesize information and strengthen their argumentative writing — skills that are essential for success on both the AP U.S. History exam and the AP Language and Composition exam.
“Teachers are doing pretty good with the AP prep this year,” senior Maira Haleem said. “They are a great help as we are getting closer to AP week.”
Outside the classroom, students are taking preparation into their own hands, developing study routines that work best for them. Some rely on group study sessions to review material collaboratively, while others turn to digital tools like flashcards and review videos to reinforce key concepts.
According to the College Board, strategies such as active recall and spaced repetition are among the most effective ways to prepare for AP exams, emphasizing consistency over cramming. At NHP, these methods are reflected in the way students balance heavy workloads, manage their time and push themselves to stay disciplined.
While the process can be overwhelming, it ultimately builds not only academic skills, but also resilience and confidence that extend far beyond the exam itself.
“My AP classes have become more fast paced and elongated,” senior Liam Cavanagh said.”However, they are still rewarding as they can help towards college.”
