Is a 4.0 GPA in high school the norm or am I pushing myself too hard?

So, I’ve always aimed for the perfect 4.0 GPA in high school, but I'm not sure if I'm setting unrealistic expectations. Is it common for students to actually maintain a 4.0 throughout high school, or should I be giving myself a little more breathing room? I get that grades aren’t everything, but I really want to get into a great college.

I understand your focus on maintaining a 4.0 GPA and it's commendable that you're setting high standards for yourself. But remember, the concept of 'norm' can vary widely. Some students do achieve a 4.0 GPA, but it's not common for everyone to maintain a perfect GPA, and that's perfectly okay.

Each student has a unique set of strengths, and college admissions officers recognize that. It's about balance and well-being as much as it is about academic performance. Considering the academic profiles of accepted students at colleges you're interested in can also provide a benchmark—you can check if a 4.0 GPA is within the usual range for those schools.

Keep in mind, they also look for challenging courses on your transcript, not just grades alone. So, pushing for a 4.0 in the most challenging courses available might not be the best strategy if it leads to burnout.

It's important to challenge yourself but also to engage deeply in areas that interest you. Think about a possible specialty (or 'spike') you'd like to develop—this can often be more compelling to admissions committees than a perfect GPA.

Lastly, remember to take care of your mental and physical health, as they are just as important for a successful college career and life beyond. If you have any specific questions or need guidance on course selection or extracurricular involvement, don't hesitate to reach out to your counselor; we're here to help!