A parent asked me yesterday if the full IB program at her son’s school is “worth it.”
The answers to most questions about whether a class, activity or task in high school is “worth it” depend on what “worth it” means. For a lot of students and parents, “worth it” ultimately means an admission to a highly selective college. The problem, of course, is that for schools that reject almost everyone who applies, there’s no magic checklist of choices that guarantees the desired outcome. You could do everything right and still not get in.
The other way to consider the “worth it” question is, “If I knew this would never help me get into college, would I still do it?”
The kid who loves math would probably still take AP calculus. The volleyball player would still be sprawling on the gym floor at practice, the tuba player would still be marching in the band, and the student body president would probably still run for office.
Even without an admission to a dream college, classes that make you smarter are worth it. Activities that make you happy are worth it. Working hard, making a difference, and leaving a legacy are worthwhile endeavors.
With the possible exception of preparing for the SAT or ACT (which really has no upside other than hopefully raising your score), most of the things you do in high school have benefits beyond any influence on your college admissions.
There’s nothing wrong with planning and making choices that leave you more prepared for college. But broadening your definition of “worth it” will help you find more reward and enjoyment without needing a college to validate your work.