What's the most important aspect to focus on in high school?

Hey everyone, I'm currently a high school junior and I'm trying to figure out what to prioritize. Between maintaining a high GPA, engaging in extracurriculars and preparing for standardized tests, what would you say is the most important thing I should focus on?

All the elements you've mentioned -- grades, extracurriculars, and standardized tests -- play integral roles in helping shape your college application profile. However, if we really have to pinpoint what’s the most important, it would be your GPA and course rigor.

Colleges pay a significant amount of attention to your GPA and the rigor of the classes you've taken, as they indicate your academic preparedness for college-level work. They want to see that you've challenged yourself within the context of what your school offers, so taking rigorous coursework and succeeding in them plays a significant role.

That said, remember it's not just about grades alone! Developing a specialty or "spike" in your activities could also make you stand out. Think about what you’re passionate about and strive to achieve distinction in that area. For example, if you’re into community service, maybe you could start a charity initiative.

Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT can also be important, depending on the colleges you're targeting. Some schools have resumed requiring standardized tests, so performing well could strengthen your application.

Try to balance all these elements and remember to keep stress levels manageable. It's a journey, and you don't want to burn yourself out before you even reach college! Good luck!