Parents, I need your advice

Parents Forum
1

<p>Hi, parents. I don't have any serious problems, but I just wanted to see if someone could relate to me right now.</p>

<p>I'm a high school senior who is having problems in school, and life in general. The problem is that I am just plain apathetic about everything. This isn't really a new development, but now I am getting concerned with college approaching. Throughout high school, I have never had more than just a little interest in any of my classes. I get very good grades, but only because I want to get into a better college. </p>

<p>I don't mean to be conceited, but I know that I am intelligent; yet I am the only intelligent person that I know that doesn't have that intellectual spark. I know that everyone gets bored in class, but I think that my problem is a little greater than that. In previous years, I would force myself (not an easy task) to pay attention for long enough to understand what we were learning in class. This year (as a senior), I seem to do everything possible not to pay attention, including talking, dozing off, twiddling my thumbs, anything. To be frank, I am just embarrassed at myself for doing these things; I know that my teachers deserve better than to have an ungrateful kid like me in their classes. Still, I'd rather do anything than actually listen.</p>

<p>I just don't understand why I do this. I'm mostly concerned about what is going to happen to me in college. Now, I'm able to sneak by solely off natural talent; in college, I doubt that I'll be able to do pull that off. All of the colleges I applied to state that, first and foremost, their students have a passion for learning. I don't feel this at all, and I am really getting worried.</p>

<p>So parents, have any of you gone through what I am? How did you work through it? Do you think that this is just a passing phase that I'll snap out of eventually? Thanks for any help.</p>

2

<p>What are some constructive things and/or ECs that you really like to do?</p>

3

<p>Where have you applied? Are you in at any colleges? You may be bored with the required courses you have right now. You will find your niche in college by taking courses that interest you and eventually finding a major. You may want to speak with a professional. I am not pushing medication but you may have some attention deficit. I am not a doctor, but have seen it in kids your age. Sounds like you have applied yourself for the grades but have not internalized real learning. You will find a way. Speak with your parents or a counselor. There is no stigma with this; in fact, you may find great relief that you are not alone. This is not unusual, but very frustrating. You can work this out and you are fortunate to have the smarts. In the meantime, really try to stay focused. This small feat may help you fell better. Hope this helps.</p>

4

<p>You have been with the same people, the same teachers, the same everything for four years. Of course it can get tedious. But, such is life. You need to find ways to make it through without risking, and it is a risk, having admission recinded for not doing well the last few months. That can be one motivation. </p>

<p>Exercise more, eat better, and set some short term goals for yourself to get through the ennui</p>

<p>Find a new EC to keep you occupied and focused...</p>