How Much Effort is Worth Putting into High School?

High school can be a challenging period, and how much effort to invest depends largely on your goals and interests. If you aspire to attend a reputable college, you should certainly put in significant effort. However, it's crucial to balance this with your personal interests and what truly excites you.

Effort Defined

Remember the lesson from the cartoon character who advised, 'Don't do anything half-ass.' Use your full effort. This is in line with the words by Yoda, 'do or do not, there is no try.' These messages underscore the importance of full commitment in any endeavor.

My Personal Experience

I was a straight A student from 6th grade through high school, but I viewed this accomplishment as a personal victory rather than a means to prove my worth or gain respect. My primary goal was to control my father's reaction when he received my report cards annually. Yes, I achieved 13 consecutive A's in one grading period, which left my father speechless.

Work versus Waste

Most of what I was taught in high school turned out to be less useful than I initially thought. I excelled by using a sharp memory and understanding the basics to discover solutions for myself. In my Euclidean geometry class, for instance, I solved a complex problem in a dream, proving the importance of creative thinking and persistence.

Important Lessons

It's crucial to remember that high school isn't about memorizing facts but rather about gaining the ability to think critically and solve problems. This is the essence of what schools should strive for but often fail to achieve.

College Success

Despite my high GPA, I found much of the college curriculum suspect. However, outstanding teachers and interesting content were invaluable. One teacher, in particular, transformed my reading skills dramatically and allowed me to teach second language learners effectively. His method, known as the Inquiry-Method or Discovery-Method, emphasized understanding the text thoroughly without relying on symbolic interpretations.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the effort you invest in high school should be directed towards what excites you and what you believe will have a meaningful impact on your future. While maintaining good grades is beneficial, remember that true success is often measured by your personal growth and the knowledge you gain. By focusing on what truly matters to you, you can make the most of your high school years.