AP Classes: What is realistic?

Ahhhh the joy of AP classes. The lovely reading, writing, studying and of course the final exam in May. Do the benefits outway the drawbacks? Sometimes I think that taking AP classes is too hyped up and not very realistic.

The benefits of taking AP classes is extensive. Students learn material in new or more sophisticated ways, gain confidence in college-level work and learn new study habits. The self-assurance once you reach college is also a plus and helps get you through your first college classes. Students also have the potential to be "excused" from beginner classes in college if AP credit is taken. Taking AP classes also gives a student a higher chance to be accepted to the school of their choice.

In, my opinion every student should take at least one or two AP classes throughout their four years of high school. This gives them the opportunity to take a rigorous class in preparation for college. The final exam is also great practice in conclusion of the course. The question is how many is too many?

I know of many examples of people who take anywhere from 5-6 AP classes a year. That is a full schedule! I don't see how people do it. If you are one of those people, tell me how you do it! I understand the benefit of a GPA boost but is it worth it? I know people who would say yes and others who would say no. Currently, I am in three AP classes and have taken two in the past. It has been difficult, but they have taught me how to manage my time (along with swimming and having a job). If I had three more to handle I think I would seriously breakdown. It's not healthy (read my other post about sleep)!

High school is supposed to be a world of school AND involvement and friends. Doing hours of homework and projects isn't living life to the fullest! When AP classes are pushed so much I feel like people are being pressured into taking them sometimes. I know I have felt that way. Just this last year, I couldn't decide what classes to take, but I felt pressured into taking as many AP classes as I could. It shouldn't be like this. Everyone should get the opportunity and once you have completed a few successfully isn't that enough?!