Big fish, small pond --> Small fish, big pond

Rutiene
Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:13:22 +0000

Something I have learned from going to College:

It doesn’t really matter if you’re the smartest or not. I have always grasped concepts quicker and made connections quicker than my classmates, in high school and in college. But that didn’t matter when I slacked off. My grade would still slip, no matter how smart or quick I was. And even when I had the highest grade, the more hardworking student had a better relationship with the professor.

So in the end, smarts may help as a boost. But 90% of how you make of yourself and distinguish yourself is how hard you work.

I had multiple advisers tell me to stop competing with other people. It really does nothing for you. Yes compare yourself with them to know how to improve, but compete consistently with yourself, and you will always be at your best. And if your best isn’t the school’s best, there’s really nothing you can do it about. So there’s no need to worry about that.

Having said the above: I understand completely where you come from. I had the same fears. I also struggle with doing the things I have suggested above, everyday. But it does help.