Key achievements for a high school student?

Hello there! With high school being such a pivotal time in our lives, I've been thinking about what kind of feats I should be aiming for. In your opinion, what are the most important things one should try to accomplish during high school years?

The high school years are indeed a crucial time in one's life, ripe for personal and academic growth. Here are some key achievements that I consider important for high school students:

1. Academic Excellence: Striving for good grades across all subjects can be a fundamental goal. Achieving high grades not only reflects a solid understanding of different subjects, but colleges also look at your GPA when considering your application.

2. Standardized Tests: Preparing for and performing well on the SAT or ACT is essential if you're considering college, as it is a common requirement for many institutions. Do note that not all colleges require them, especially in the wake of many schools going test-optional due to the pandemic.

3. Active Participation in Extracurricular Activities: You'd like to excel, whether it's academic clubs, sports teams, or volunteer work. Leadership roles can be particularly beneficial. It's generally better to be deeply involved in a couple of activities rather than be a casual participant in many.

4. Self-Directed Projects or Independent Research: If you have a specific interest or passion, pursuing an independent project in that field can be very powerful. This could be writing a novel, conducting a science experiment, starting a business, or creating an art portfolio.

5. Recognition and Awards: Winning some sort of recognition or accolades in your field of interest (academic competitions, sports tournaments, art or writing contests etc.) can also be a great achievement.

6. Community Service: Volunteering and giving back to the community is a valuable experience and indicates a strong ethical character.

7. Personal Development: High school is also a great time for personal growth. This could be overcoming personal challenges, developing strong friendships, or acquiring skills that are not strictly academic, such as communication, resilience, or time management.

Remember, the focus is not just on boosting the college application, but on developing yourself as a well-rounded individual. The experiences you gain should also help you become a thoughtful, responsible, and purposeful member of society. Every student's journey is unique, so your key achievements might look different from those of your peers - and that's okay!