Key Takeaways from High School

What's the most important thing you guys learned in high school? It could be an invaluable lesson, a lifelong skill, or just something that gave a whole new perspective about life and learning.

Speaking from the perspective of a college admissions counselor, I believe one invaluable lesson learned during high school is the importance of resilience. As high school students face academic challenges, personal growth, and the college admissions process, they learn to power through various obstacles, which is a crucial life skill. This resilience helps equip them to navigate future challenges in college and beyond.

For some students, a fundamental takeaway is the understanding that it's okay not to have everything figured out. High school is a time of exploration, and students often enter college still unsure about their long-term career goals. This is absolutely fine and often leads one to unique and fulfilling paths they might not have otherwise considered.

Another valuable insight derives from active engagement in coursework, which provides a sense of the fields of study a student might pursue in college. This exposure helps them develop and refine their interests. For instance, taking an AP Psychology course might ignite a student's passion for psychology, propelling them towards that major in college.

Lastly, involvement with extracurricular activities fosters community engagement, teamwork, and leadership. It's from these experiences that students oftentimes learn about commitment, collaboration, and making a positive impact. Not only do these experiences contribute to personal growth, but they also further enrich your college applications, demonstrating a student's character and dedication toward their interests.