<p>LKF said what I was trying to say, albeit much more eloquently. </p>
<p>For me, the intellectual challenge is its own reward. I simply cannot be happy without that as a large part of my life, which is why I'll always want high-pressure jobs that require a lot of education. I'll get the education because I really enjoy pushing myself and learning. If you aren't one of those people, fine - but know yourself.</p>
<p>Well, I really don't have any problem doing the work - in fact, I think it's something I'm good at. </p>
<p>But thank you all for the inputs, this is definitely an interesting discussion</p>
<p>the kids are very unmotivated in my school they join clubs b/c they want to every quater ur supposed to do that but they change every quater there clubs they dont keep the same clubs...I have 2 clubs im highly motivated in..Student council and Fido and filo(i think thats what its called we raise money for a falling apart local animal shelter...its really fun we go on trips once a quater to the shelter...and we give the money..we have bake sales..)im trying to get back into drama club...and ive got Hellen kellar national center which i just started...its a great and fun way to get ur community service hours done...and i do horseback riding and piano and singing and a little acting here and there...and my grades are average...but i love every ec i have</p>
<p>ariesathena,</p>
<p>I respect what you are saying, but my point is that even if you do have a very determined outlook on learning and absolutely do your best in any endeavor, why does that restrict you to certain careers -- "the high-pressure, professional" ones. </p>
<p>In my mind, to be the best at any profession -- from being an accountant, doctor, researcher, teacher, or nurse, it takes tremendous drive and determination to be the BEST at anything. The "best nurse" in this world probably works super hard, tremendously determined in her career and very motivated.</p>
<p>Thus, my general question to everyone is why the "high-performing" students, myself included, are often led into these top level professional careers that Ariesathena has mentioned?</p>
<p>You have an excellent point. People do tend to expect that high performing students in high school will aim for high paying, high pressure, high status jobs, and that isn't always a good expectation. Perhaps your goal is not to be CEO of a company or brain surgeon. Some top students may end up as missionaries, advocates for the poor, social service workers, even homeschooling moms (speaking for myself) or truck drivers, and be wonderfully happy and fulfilled at those jobs.</p>
<p>I think you are very wise to step back and ask, "Why?" You need to take a look at your own gifts and passions and decide for yourself what path to follow, rather than letting others guide you along some stereotypical "top student" path.</p>