What makes a high school student stand out as impressive?

Just wondering, what kind of things would establish a high school student as being 'most impressive'? Is it purely academics, or do extracurriculars and other factors like community service play a big role too?

Certainly, academics do play a significant role in defining an impressive high school student. Being dedicated to your studies, taking rigorous coursework, and maintaining a strong GPA all make a positive impression. However, excelling academically isn't the only way to stand out.

Extracurricular involvement is a key aspect as well. Here, it's about quality rather than quantity. Rather than participating in numerous activities as a member, being highly involved in a select few is often more beneficial. A student who has demonstrated leadership or has made significant contributions in a few focused areas is seen as impressive. Rightly so, as these students have typically demonstrated dedication, initiative, and skill in their areas of interest.

Extracurriculars are judged using the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, with Tier 1 showing exceptional achievement or leadership at the national or international level and Tier 4 showcasing general club or sports membership. Prioritizing a few activities that fall into higher tiers can make a student stand out.

Community service, certainly, can also make high school students stand out, especially if a student has made a significant impact on their community. It can demonstrate personal initiative, empathy, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Ideally, the service projects a student undertakes will align with their academic or career interests.

Other factors that can help a student stand out are unique personal experiences or backgrounds, exceptional circumstances they have overcome, or special talents, such as artistic or athletic abilities.

Remember that what may make a student stand out can vary depending on the perspective of the person viewing the student's accomplishments. Something that one person finds impressive, another might find common. So, make sure to support your own personal "spike" or focus and demonstrate passion and achievement in that area.