Throughout our high school experience we watch many award ceremonies; best this, highest that, fastest, most, greatest, top, longest, shortest; on it goes. Awards are a constant reminder for some of us that the passage through high school is filled with evidence that we are not of the highest calibre; that there are always others in front of us. There is no doubt that many of us find school hard. We struggle with math, creating the most basic of essays, writing a science report and understanding the complexities of art. Sometimes, many times, it all seems too much. For those of us not very academically or athletically inclined nor talented, there are twelve or more years of struggle, culminating in years of heartache in high school. How do you keep your head held high under such a repressive system? How do you keep smiling under the constant highlighting of those who are better?
Do not be discouraged. You are worthy of praise and prize. The praise can come from doing your best; the prize is that you give yourself every advantage to take opportunity of further training and improved career prospects that would not ordinarily be available to you. Best not to concern yourself with the flight of the gifted, talented or better supported. It just happens that way. Some are born already advantaged, some are not. Make the best of who you are and where you come from. Focus on what you need to do, what is best for you. Others fade, you must not. Be sure that some of us who struggle the most will rise to high posts in this world.
As early as you can, start to research as many College, University and other training institution entry requirements as you can. This will give you a good idea of what is required and, importantly, how to apply for entry and for scholarships. Practise writing a few applications. Get a teacher or family member of friend to read through it. The more you do this, the better will your applications become. Immersing yourself in this knowledge will also empower your schooling. You will know which subjects you should put more effort into. The further into the system you go, the more importance this information and strategy takes.
Post high school training is not the only path to success. Entrepreneurship, on the job training and experience will also bear fruit. Never, ever get too despondent if one of your strategies for success does not go according to plan. Every successful person will tell you there are many trails to follow on the way to the top; some more direct than others, some easier than others, some more clearly signposted that others. No matter. The trail to your success will be there and will have your own name attached to it. Your task is to find it.
Enjoy the journey, knowing that persistence will get you there. The prize at the end is far more rewarding than those gifted at long and often boring high school ceremonies. What can be better than such prizes of recognition and prestige? The awesome gift you give to yourself and future family; freedom from hunger, a safe home, a secure life.
Enjoy high school with the vision of how it is set up not to praise others but to help you step into a wonderful life.
Have a great day
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