The Renaissance Teenager
Most people who have studied the European History have heard of the term “Renaissance Man” which became a popular term during the rebirth and renewal of European culture. The term is a title that praises a man who was skilled in multiple crafts. These men where intelligent, creative, innovative, etc.
One example of a Renaissance Man was Leonardo da Vinci who was skilled in over seven different crafts (ex: writer, geologist, writer). Why am I talking about history in an article about today’s teens? Hundreds of thousands of teenagers apply to college each year and the competition gets stiffer as applicants become more qualified. Students are encouraged to persue multiple hobbies as well as have a stellar GPA in order to increase their chances of getting into a good school. With the competition so fierce, teenagers today are expected to become “Renaissance teenagers,” teenagers who are skilled in academics and athletics while also persuing other interests outside of school. I understand the pressure that most teenagers nowadays are feeling as they prepare to fill out college applications and/or take the qualifying examinations.
I am a sophomore in high school and am currently taking all honors and an AP course; I also play the violin and piano, tutor after school, and am joined multiple clubs which include community service clubs and Model UN. A lot of schools also rank their students at the start of their junior year which can make some students so stressed out that they panic if their grade goes from a 96 to a 95 after getting a 92 on a quiz. I have read articles where people state that applying to college is like a lotto game and that there isn’t always a set standard when enrolling their students. Colleges want to accept students who will make their campus a better place. They want students with solid grades and a ton of extracurriculars. After stating this, I want to reiterate the main purpose of this article.
Do what makes you happy. If you want to join the art club but are debating between that and Model UN because it looks better on an application, join the art club. You won’t be happy if you join Model UN and colleges know if you are just doing something to boost your status even if your heart isn’t in it. In the end, don’t worry about becoming a Renaissance teenager. Just do what makes you happy and try your best to keep your grades up. Just be you.
Finally, when you do apply, just let fate takes its course and you will see that you will end up exactly where you need to be.
