<p>I love to learn. I love school (although there are some classes I loathe). I do not mold myself into a perfect student to impress colleges; however, I do tweak myself in order to make myself more competitive for the schools I want. For example, in freshman year, before AP social studies classes were available, I was in a GT class, which was an open discussion class. I absolutely loved the discussion class, but I took the AP classes when they became available, although they were more of a lecture-style class. I didn’t drop the social studies classes because XYZ college would prefer it if I took a math class, I just took a more advanced class that I knew I could do just as well in and that could prepare me for college with the style of class, the workload, and the potential college credit.</p>
<p>I think it’s sad when students struggle in electives they hate or join ECs they hate because colleges like it. In my school, for example, NHS basically does events for the school. I was invited to join, but declined because I didn’t want to waste my mornings and afternoons doing something I wasn’t passionate about. I was immediately attacked by my friends because apparently NHS is the most prestigious club and is the key to colleges. Looking at my list of ECs, I’m happy because I am heavily involved with each and every one, and I am passionate about each and every one. They are all a reflection of me.</p>
<p>My goals are still to graduate high school, get into college, graduate college, and be a teacher, but I don’t want to miss out on the experiences in between. I feel that so many students are ONLY focused on the next step that they don’t stop and smell the roses. I think you have to have that next step in the back of your mind, but you’re going to make yourself miserable if that’s all you think about.</p>