In the past two years, I have witnessed mental breakdown after mental breakdown from my friends, peers and even myself. There’s a constant, crushing pressure to obtain the best test scores, the best GPA, participate in the most extracurricular activities — and the worst part? However, I think this pressure isn’t just coming from students — it’s coming from the entire Los Altos High School community, ranging from teachers to parents. 

It’s gotten to the point where whenever I hear someone say that they’re failing a class, I have to ask if they are actually failing or just have a “B.” And when I do, the answer is always the latter. 

Education is much more than the grades you receive — it’s about exploring subjects that truly intrigue you. If you’re only taking a class for the easy “A,” of course, it’s going to feel like a chore and burn you out much more quickly than a class you genuinely enjoy. 

School is inevitably going to have difficult periods throughout the year, but that’s not a sign to stress yourself out beyond the breaking point. When it comes to reducing that burden, moderation is key: only take AP classes in subjects that you are willing to learn more about and are willing to put more effort into. 

Your grades aren’t nearly as important as your personal health. Stressing yourself out to the point of sickness, pulling all-nighters or getting burnt out for the sake of perfect grades is unnecessary and damaging to your overall education. 

Ultimately, when it comes to learning, everyone is capable of delving deeper into subjects that bring them joy. As a wise person told me, everything happens for a reason. What college you go to doesn’t truly matter, and as long as you put enough effort into your education, everything will work out in the end. 

Remember that you are more than your grades, 

Sara <3