Expert: Todd Johnson - 3/28/2008

Question
Hello,
Although I know the question I'm asking you isn't quite in the area of your expertise, I think you can help me.  I am an 8th grader who is trying to choose between to different paths of highschool education: Going to school O, who's corresponding middle school I'm attending, in my bus district,offers opportunity to take college classes and has a brand new school building as well as other perks.  Or going to school M, a school that's not in my district (my parents are willing to drive me there)but offers the International Baccalaureate program.  I have a good chance of getting admitted to the IB program.  My question(s)  is/are: Are IB programs really worth it (hard work, change of school,etc.)?  Do people with an IB diploma (or alternatively a certificate) get into better colleges?  Are the classes truly of better quality?

Thank you,

Lee

Answer
Lee,

Congratulations on giving serious consideration to this matter when you should be doing so. I can't say for sure on what you best option is because the quality of the two schools is something I can't evaluate.

I can tell you generally that colleges look very favorable on IB programs. Although getting an IB diploma is generally preferable, getting the certificate is also a good choice. Most colleges, and highly selective ones in particular, want to see the student challenging themselves as much as possible in the classes they take. The IB diploma is generally the best example of a strong academic program.

Personally, I would ignore the issue of the new school building since it has nothing to do with the education you will receive. The opportunity to take college classes can be helpful but most colleges will prefer the IB program since it is an internationally uniform form of education. Unfortunately, the quality of education received at colleges is not consistent and many colleges used by high schools are not as well recognized by the stronger colleges.

I would think that the IB program would be preferable if you can get admitted to this program.

Good luck.