2022
I've always loved mathematics. From the complex proofs required for competition math, to direct application in physics and engineering projects, I have been able to be lost for hours at a time in analysis. My counselor at the time, knowing my interest, offered to let me take a placement exam for AP Calculus AB and self-study the subject over the summer if I wanted. I immediately said yes.
It was immensely empowering to realize that I wasn't bound by the schedule of classes in my school, and I could learn at my own pace!
I used Khan Academy and a Stuart Calculus Textbook to teach myself the basics of single variable calculus.
Over 8 weeks, I finished the curriculum and was able to test out of Calculus AB. That year I took a multivariable calculus class (which included the topics in AP Calculus BC that I hadn't studied) and took the BC exam.