Just a junior here trying to plan ahead for senior year. Does anybody know the most common awards given out in high schools? I'd like to know just so I can have an idea of what I should be aiming for.
High schools across the country offer various awards and honors to their students. Some of the most common ones include:
1. Honor Roll: This typically recognizes students with a high GPA across all classes.
2. Department awards: These are offered in specific subjects such as Math, History, English, Science, Foreign Language, Music, and more. They acknowledge students who excel in those areas.
3. Student-athlete awards: These honors are given to students who excel both academically and athletically. Examples can include MVP awards, team captain designations, and all-district or all-state athlete honors.
4. Leadership awards: These are given to students who take on significant roles in school clubs, class councils, or student government.
5. Community service awards: These recognize commitments to volunteering, community engagement, and civic-oriented extracurriculars.
6. National Honors Society (NHS) membership: This is a nationwide organization dedicated to recognizing high school students who excel academically and demonstrate strong character, leadership, and service.
In addition to aiming for these accolades, it's also beneficial to look at what's available outside your school. National and regional awards, such as those from academic or service organizations, or competitions in your area of interest, can provide valuable opportunities to demonstrate your skills and dedication.
Remember that while these awards can strengthen your college applications, they aren't the only thing admissions officers look at. Your coursework, grades, extracurricular activities, and essays are also vital parts of your profile. Focus on excelling in the areas that you truly care about and are passionate about. This passion, more than any award, can make you stand out in the application process.
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