Am I doing enough to get into college?

Hi @Rosemary1776!

I know my reply is REALLY long, but I feel it's necessary for you.

I think you need to do yourself a favor by NOT doing stuff merely for getting into college. If you're living with that mindset, no matter how much you do, you'll always feel that it's not enough. The toxic admissions culture is unfortunately making students get into an unhealthy competition for securing a spot in top colleges. Unless you're the smartest and most talented kid on the planet, there will always be someone better than you in one aspect or the other. Do not compare yourself to overachievers and think you're a failure. As you've already experienced, achievements will only give you temporary satisfaction. Not sure what you mean by a good college, but if you've been brainwashed into believing that the only path to a successful life includes straight A's in high school with a laundry list of extracurriculars; studying at an Ivy League or Ivy-equivalent college, and pursuing a career in STEM or a field that demands high qualifications, DO NOT believe all that.

Pursue extracurriculars ONLY if you're interested in them, NOT because someone told you to do so. It is better to spend more quality time in relatively few activities rather than trying to distribute time between too many activities.

Maintaining a good GPA in rigorous coursework is important, but that shouldn't overpressure you. Getting one B isn't the end of the world. You said you have an A- due to mental health issues. Your mental health will just get worse if you're biting off more than you can chew.

You've just started high school. You have some wonderful years ahead of you. Being goal-oriented isn't a bad thing, but don't be so engrossed with college preparation that you eventually regret ignoring other crucial parts of your life (family, friends, and your own well-being). Wishing you good luck on the journey that awaits you...

Hope this helps!

Short answer: Yes, you're doing enough.

Long answer: With you having all A's (One A- shouldn't be that big especially if you are a freshman) I feel as if you are on the right path and you will continue on that good path. Keep up the good work and continue to pursue as many extracurricular activities as you can. Just make sure the extracurricular activities are the ones you actually enjoy. Make sure to take breaks though! Your mental health is also important and you should always make sure that is your first priority!!! You are doing an amazing job so far and I wish you nothing but luck in the future! Sorry if none of this made any sense, English isn't my first language.