<p>This is definitely more of a general question, but I wanted to post it on here because (at least in my opinion) you guys are the best on CC. (;</p>
<p>What qualities do you feel makes an exceptional student?</p>
<p>For me, it’s passion and interest for learning in general, the ability to go above and beyond in what one is interested in, willingness to help others, and a positive attitude. (I might as well be a Stanford propaganda. 
)</p>
<p>Just curious to see what you all think!</p>
<p>The exceptional students I know are strong, high-energy people and have the ability to get by on very little sleep. Without good health, all the passion and diligence won’t amount to much.</p>
<p>On the other hand, TheGFG, getting by on very little sleep isn’t consistent with good health over the long term. We happen to have the leading expert on sleep on our faculty here (Dr. William Dement), and he spends a lot of time trying to convince students that they will be healthier and more productive, and learn more, if they get enough sleep. There is a whole load of research to back him up as well. It takes a huge amount of discipline and time management to get a healthy amount of sleep in this kind of environment though.</p>
<p>^^ Agree, up to the last part about little sleep. I think it’s still possible to ace all those tests with 6 or 7 + hours of sleep if one manages their time wisely. I’m sure that truly exceptional students do pull all-nighters here or there. I don’t think it’s a “defining characteristic”, though.</p>