Are you confused, overwhelmed or swamped with piles of assignments from your AP classes? If you are feeling any of these symptoms you may be experiencing academic burnout, but do not fear, AP Advocates is here.
AP Advocates is a relatively new program created by Lockport’s very own Kelly Fetherling and run by Dr. Gilbert, to support students who are new to or struggling in AP classes. The program connects students with experienced AP mentors through Compass Chats, where they can receive advice, encouragement and practical strategies from peers who truly understand the demands of college-level coursework.
Unlike traditional academic support programs, AP Advocates emphasizes peer-to-peer connection. Mentors offer guidance not only on managing workload and studying effectively, but also on balancing stress and maintaining motivation throughout the school year. For many students, simply talking to someone who has “been there” makes a significant difference.
“AP Advocates was very helpful for me, especially knowing that I had people who had previously taken the class helping me be ready for the exam,” says junior Lockport student, Grace Szmergalski, who was a part of the program her sophomore year. “ My mentors gave me study tips and encouraged me to put forth my best effort in the classes I struggled in.”
With the aid of fellow advocates, Grace went on to earn a four on her AP Macroeconomics exam in May. However, the benefits of AP Advocates extend beyond the students seeking help. Members of the program gain valuable leadership experience while giving back to the school community.
“It was a really fulfilling experience to get the opportunity to help my peers, and I found a love for leadership and teaching,” says former Lockport student Sydney Milcarek. “After this experience, I developed my leadership role in Model UN and became one of the secretary generals of the club.”
Programs like AP Advocates also address a larger issue within academic settings: the pressure placed on students to succeed without asking for help. As AP enrollment continues to grow, initiatives that promote balance and peer support become increasingly important, which is why AP Advocates has quickly become an impactful addition to Lockport Township High School.
AP Advocates serves as a reminder that success in AP classes is not defined solely by grades, but by growth, perseverance, and community. It is common amongst many AP students to feel they must succeed without asking for help, but what they may learn from choosing to challenge themselves with these classes is that it can actually be a strength to recognize when they need it.
And that is another part of what AP Advocates strives to do. Students who feel overwhelmed are encouraged to take advantage of Compass Chats, while those interested in leadership and mentorship are invited to consider becoming AP Advocates themselves. By supporting one another, Lockport students are proving that no one has to navigate the challenges of AP classes alone.
If you are interested in coming to one of our study sessions for help, they take place in the East Campus Port during Compass, and their first one is on Feb. 23. More information about AP Advocates’ sessions will be posted on the student splash page. If you are interested in becoming an advocate yourself, students are strongly encouraged by the program to apply next year!
