The College Advisor: A Balancing Act

Have you ever brought home a report card that had all A's and one B...or all B's and one C?  What's the grade that gets the most attention?  The lowest one, of course. 

    For a student, that can be very frustrating. He asks himself, "Why don't I get a little recognition for the 6 A's?  My parents always look at what I do wrong instead of what I do right! Why even try if they're just going to be on my case?  I can never please them."  

    Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.  While a student should work for a decent level of proficiency in all subjects, let's face it, not every student is going to be a whiz in calculus.  And yet, the student who makes a B in Calculus may be an outstanding writer or a linguist extraordinaire!  Parents need to remember to look at the overall picture, appreciating the strengths and understanding the weaknesses of their student. Parents might suggest a tutor or a study group (with food, of course) in their student's weak areas, and unless they know for a fact that their student isn't trying his best, they shouldn't go on the offensive. Students, you need to spend the extra effort needed to bring up that lower grade. Get help if you need it; talk to your teacher; try a new way of studying; and instead of putting off the homework for your least favorite class until last, get it done first, while you still have the ability to focus. 

    In Colossians 3;23, the Apostle Paul urges believers, "Whatever you do, work at with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men."  In other words, Christians should pursue excellence in everything. Does that mean that every Christian high school student will make straight A's?  Of course not. We pursue excellence in everything, but we will only be excellent in some things.  Each of us has been equipped for a special calling.  When we have a natural ability, we should pay attention to that talent and devote energy to being outstanding in that field.  The chances of being a leader in a field where you have talent is much greater than the chances of being a leader in a field where you have a difficult time grasping the concepts. How has God equipped you for excellence?  Could that be a clue to your calling?

    Yes, we do want to strengthen our weaknesses, but don't spend so much time working on your weaknesses that you take those God-given strengths for granted.  Find the balance of working on your weaknesses and soaring in your strengths.

For more information, go to www.competitivecollegecoaching.com.