The Game of High School: Competition
For the modern high school student, the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming. Many teens feel obligated to take demanding classes while juggling intense workloads, and this competitive mindset often emerges in the classroom. Students have become increasingly competitive with their peers, their friends, and even themselves. Many now ask, where is the line between competition and antagonism?
As the teacher of one of Aragon’s most desired classes, AP Biology’s Katie Ward explains, “The classes themselves are not designed so that kids have to compete to be at the top… [everyone] could get an A if they deserved it. The competition is student generated.” Freshman Jessica Moe concurs, “The teachers encourage you to do your best and really try rather than be the best.”
Conversely, some see competition arise between students in negative ways. “People are always comparing grades on essays or tests. They are always asking, ‘Oh, what did you get on the test?’, or things like that” says senior Kirsten Ho.
“I usually see competition arise in AP classes more than anywhere else,” adds junior Derrick Leong, “Everyone’s vying for the A and sometimes they have to step on others to get it.”
Students may be taking classes that put them under pressure to succeed, but competition can also stem from other stressors. In recent years, college admission rates have dropped, and many students feel pressure to make themselves competitive in the application process.
Nick Tom, a senior who is currently drafting his applications, says, “There is definitely competition outside of Aragon’s classes, as college admissions become increasingly rigorous. It’s not malicious; [Aragon students] are just applying to the same colleges.” Kirsten Ho agrees, adding, “We are all trying to get into good colleges, and there are only so many spots in the top colleges we all aim for.”
However, many remain divided when it comes to determining how academic competition should be addressed. “I am very competitive with other students,” says freshman Nicholas Veizades, “I think that’s a good thing. It improves the work of students.” Melissa Spaulding, a sophomore who recently transferred from Notre Dame High School, adds, “The academic atmosphere here is great. I feel very supported and welcomed by the people around me.”
Others are concerned about the effects. Junior Luiggi Sebastiani explains, “People try to outdo each other, and they always seem stressed when they’re competing against others.”
For now, Aragon students will continue to tackle the pressure of high school. Although competition between peers can sometimes lead to unfriendliness, most agree that the average teenager is only trying to succeed.
Spanish teacher Luisa Hardy resolves, “Students should know that competition isn’t everything —it’s ok to just be a good person.
