some of my class learned their ranking from teachers (official report cards have not come out yet), and many, since they know I won the principal’s award in middle school, ask my ranking. However, I absolutely hate bragging, or anything that seems like bragging, and whenever I say my ranking, I feel as if I’m bragging to people Usually I try to change the subject or make an excuse (“I bet a lot of people are tied with me”) but it makes me uncomfortable and anxious as I think those people see me as stuck up or something (even though they probably don’t). It’s really awkward to just say , “I dont feel like saying” or “I would really not like to say, it makes me feel bad” or sone thing to that extent (I know, I’ve tried). So, CC, how do I deal with people asking me my ranking? What do you say? Thanks.
I had the same issue when people asked me about SAT scores. Usually I just reply, “I did well” or “I did alright” really nonchalantly and then move the conversation to a different subject. Responding that way usually satisfies their curiosity and usually people take the hint that I don’t want to share the specifics. If they persist, then I say things like “that’s not important, what is important is…”, make some sort of joke about it (over 9000), or just say that I am not comfortable saying.
If they are genuinely asking, I’d probably respond. they inquired so they should expect an honest answer.
What do you mean by awkward? If that’s how you feel then say so. It seems like you don’t care about ranking, so you could respond with “I don’t really care about my rank” or something to that extent. I don’t have experience as being recognized as a top student, but if i did, I’d state the rank or score or whatever and then brush it off as nothing (shows some humility). Or I’d just say I don’t care
I feel the same way @shawnspencer . My SAT score is the second highest in my graduating class and it feels so odd when people ask and I’m like “Oh yeah, I scored 500 more points than you did”. Especially seeing that a lot of my classmates are delusion. Some girl got a 21 on the ACT and someone said “Oh, well that’s good.” And I just had to bite my tongue.
OP, you are not required to disclose your rank to classmates. If you feel uncomfortable, it is well within your right to not talk about your rank.
@CaliCash is right. It’s like asking what someone got right after a test, it’s personal information and you’re not required to share it. I think the thing is, for me, I’d rather be associated with my character and personality rather than some number people compare themselves to. Believe it or not, word gets around quickly and I’d rather not be treated differently because of it.
Just the other day one of my younger friends told me “I heard you got into XYZ college with blah blah scores and extracurriculars, so my parents are encouraging me to be just like you.” While I was flattered I was kind of taken aback, I really didn’t consider myself to be anyone’s role model, and I quickly said “No no no…” and encouraged her to be involved in things she was interested in and to find her own path.
Not everyone is the same and there’s more to a person than meets the eye. I am a strong believer that one’s worth more than a number so it’s important to express that because there’s more than one pathway to success
No, you are not required to share it, but they’re going to make up their own story about how you react, no matter what it is, so, if they ask, tell them. It’s your ranking, you’ve got to own it. Besides, those kinds of things can be seen by a lot of staff and eventually get out.
SAT scores are different. Those are private, so if you don’t want to tell, you can make a joke as some have suggested or just say “I did better than I thought I would” or something that gives them a little bit to think about.
Why does everyone just want to know GPA, ACT/SAT scores? I’m just curious… Still young, not to that point yet.
People have a terrific desire to know where they “stand”. It’s a powerful human factor.
Great. Im a freshman and there’s already a few people managing to slip by with a C in HA2 class, but they want to brag about being good at math because ACT scores (which is ok, I guess?).
Let them brag. We don’t care. Make sure they get on your Math Competition Team. Or not.
If someone asks about your score, rank, or GPA, they’re the one that wanted to know in the first place. Of course don’t, give that information if you’re uncomfortable about it, but if anyone gives you beef about bragging, they’re wrong.
Thank you everyone that replied. i never liked sharing with people my grades, but if they want to know I will tell them. Or try to change the subject!