Education Unboxed | Grades do matter; Do not settle for mediocrity
Rian Gabriel Fuentes
"Importante buhi,” a statement frequently uttered by students when confronting academic challenges. Unfortunately, this sentiment often leads to an acceptance of mediocrity. It is disheartening that many are content with merely passing, despite knowing they have the potential to achieve higher results — even gaining academic honors. However, is there really a need to excel academically if we live in a country that does not empower its intellects? That is why, I strongly believe that this tendency is rooted in a lack of self-confidence, social norms, and having a fixed mindset.
Stepping into a classroom, one can already distinguish average students when asked about their academic direction. It cannot be denied that each student has different goals and aspirations towards their life such as winning Palarong Pambansa in their respective sport or striving for recognition in the artistic field. However, academic grades remain an essential benchmark on how students manage their academic obligations as they deeply reflect a student’s determination, discipline, and hard work. Although there are different types of intelligence, neglecting the importance of grades completely blocks the development of a learner’s critical thinking and accountability. After all, it remains a standard for colleges and universities to provide a priority for applicants who have a high grade during their high school years.
Mediocrity not only comes from the self, but it can be also rooted in our society. One of the key issues that I have thoroughly observed is the continuous smart shaming that good-performing students have received throughout their academic years. I am inclined to believe that this has to do with Filipinos overemphasizing the values of respect and shame. For instance, it is taboo for a young family member to correct their relatives, as elders are seen as a symbol of wisdom and experience, and correcting or contradicting their viewpoints can be perceived as disrespectful to them. Therefore, we have adopted this mentality that to avoid conflicts, we must play it safe and act normal in school — only average. Realistically, there should be no feeling of embarrassment when you excel academically as it reflects your utter drive and diligence. Fitting in does not necessarily translate to a positive outcome as you can take this chance to become a trailblazer and role model in your community.
Although having goals is seen as a positive and commendable attribute, it depends on the type of mindset produced by the learner: growth or fixed. To elaborate, almost all achieving-students and well-recognized learners set their mind in thinking that failures are part of their journey; where it is a chance for them to re-evaluate their strategy in facing their studies. They are not easily demotivated if they have a low score on their examination, instead, they utilize this situation to spot their mistakes and look for methods to improve it. On the other hand, a learner with a fixed mindset fears failure but does not do anything about it as their mind is already fixed in believing that their capabilities have already peaked. Unlike their counterparts who do not fear change and accept adjustments, they tend to play it safe and have a pessimistic point of view toward their capacity to improve. That is why it is crucial to change, reflect on, and reconsider one’s perspective.
It is important to note that being average is not inherently wrong, it is more so the questionable mentality of the student that prevents students from recognizing their potential. The ingredient of putting no effort into studying, being strongly influenced by social norms, and believing that your skills are static anymore, it encapsulates that you are bound to be mediocre. Grades do not define your worth as a person, but it reflects your hard work and determination as a student — your undying passion to learn.
Despite sports and arts being in the likes of mainstream education, it cannot be denied that academics have always been a top priority and popular route most people go into. However, personal, social, and cultural factors hinder students from excelling in it. That is why, striving to be the best should be seen as a positive attitude because it entails the determination of a student to succeed and reach one's dreams. It is vital that academic excellence is perceived as a testament and a benchmark of a student’s hard work and diligence. There is no shame in being different, only in believing that you have reached your full potential despite making no efforts to improve yourself.
After all, grades are the keystone in helping you land beneficial opportunities such as free scholarships, paid internships, and exclusive invites to Olympiad competitions. It is also important to note that the top and competitive schools have a minimum grade requirement to allow you in their institution. That is why as Filipino students, it is time to step up and fulfill what Dr. Jose Rizal desires—to be the future of our country. Our country is in a state where our path ahead is unclear, and now is the best time to fully take advantage of our educational opportunities to provide hope and stability. We must show that in adversity, it is possible to rise and conquer fears, doubts, and failures.