The latest updates to class rank and GPA are out and once again the student body is in a competitive frenzy. Nowadays, students spend more time worrying about their GPA and class rank that they forget that the whole point of school is to learn, not to compete for the top rank.

There are two paths sometimes taken by teens, both of which prevent students from reaching their potential. First, you could learn the bare minimum, just enough to pass the test. This becomes a problem because teens aren’t completely taking advantage of the knowledge that is readily available to be understood. Instead, they learn just enough to get by and pass the semester.

The second commonly seen route is when students choose to take an easier class than what could be taken in order to receive a higher grade. High school is the place to fully utilize all available tools and activities. But instead of doing so, students care more about what they can achieve, instead of what they can learn.

To say that I never have done either of these two would be a complete and total lie. I’m not trying to be hypocritical in any way, but I am just trying to point out the problem with GPA and class rank.

In some cases, competition might be a good thing in that it can be the underlying motive for students to strive to do well. I mean, who doesn’t like a little competition? As long as the students have the right intentions, I say go for it.

And on top of everything, students think their class rank and GPA is more important than whether or not they actually understand the subject. There is nothing wrong with taking a class that has an “easy 100”, but only if you have an interest in the topic. Don’t take a class unless you aren’t willing to put forth effort because not only are you making things difficult for your teacher, but you are letting down yourself.

When will you ever receive another time to push your boundaries of your knowledge without risking your future or spending a lot of money?

The answer is probably never. That’s why it is so important to break out of your comfort zone, or to push your learning limits while you are still in high school. Risks and restrictions only become more frequent as time passes, so do what you want before it’s too late.