<p>I currently have a choice between two high schools, both being in the top 1 percent. However, school A is more
competitive, has more students, and is ranked higher by Washington Post & Newsweek. School B is less competitive (and therefore it would be easier to "stand out and excel"), has less students, but has a lower rank than School A.
My question is what would colleges think if you go to a super competitive school and get good grades + are involved in clubs BUT cannot "stand out" in that particular high school? </p>
<p>Here’s my take: do what you want to do in high school. My district has a top ranked magnet school where it is near impossible to be in the top 10%, but we stopped ranking so it really doesn’t matter. But it’s still difficult to stand out. I choose this school because I wanted the best peers and the best learning opportunities, and while the competition can be frustrating, the diversity of thought within my school is amazing. People who get into top schools aren’t usually the very top students gradewise. </p>
<p>I think it will look better if you choose the more competitive school. If I was an admissions officer at a top school, and I saw that a student hadn’t acted on every education opportunity possible in high school, I wouldn’t think they would take advantage of the educational opportunities available in college.</p>
<p>But in all honesty, do what you want. I don’t regret going to my magnet school; it was the right choice. I think you know which school you want to go to, and choose that one, not the one that you think the colleges want you to choose. </p>