Academia is not the only fruit

I usually prefer to begin my essays with an Oxford definition, or from any other reputable source. Unfortunately, in this instance, I have found no exact definition. I have found the meaning of a 'good student' (someone who adheres to the expectations and ideals set by the school or educational institution), a 'truly exceptional student' (shows real intellectual curiosity) and an 'ideal student' (disciplined, punctual, maintaining balance, patient, and responsible), yet no exact response to my inquiry - 'how do you define the best student?' Regarding academia, of course, there is the unwritten characterisation for the 'perfect' student: reserved yet attentive, disciplined, determined, not to mention inimitable in their skill - however, in tandem, the individuals who fit this stereotype often don't socialise and lack soft skills such as teamwork. So, would their deficits demote them from their number one place on the podium? I believe it is entirely possible to exhibit a combination of the previously described traits, yet there is no way to define the 'best' student in a category so broad; this is not to disregard those who are best in a particular area, which can be categorised by points, a league table, or any other form of specific organisation - but in an area with so many factors, a large number of people are incomparable.

As an individual, I find myself fortunate enough that i have many of these characteristics - I have previously been described as quiet, attentive and organised, concerning my behaviour and general demeanour - this genuinely came as a surprise to me as I had never previously considered myself that way! I am often forgetful, chaotic and illogical - but I believe that being able to recognise this shows my willingness to improve and self-awareness.

In my personal opinion, I don't believe there is a true method or list of traits to be the best student. From another's perspective, the 'best' student may be the one who never attends lessons, never revises or devotes time to their education, yet continually scores above 90% in assessments and exams. They don't disturb other students, and they achieve the 'academic expectations set by the institution'; if you ignore what is considered to be flaws, surely they would class as an excellent student? Another pupil may not be academic, but is logical and has other skill sets that allow them to succeed in their future pathways.

To say that one person is the best would discredit the skill another displays in a different area that is not purely academic - to say that one person is 'less' than another undermines their potential as an individual. So, if the best student is someone who procrastinates, is illogical and overly perfectionistic, I believe that would be me.

I had to copy this out from paper so now my fingers hurt. This was a piece of English homework from about a month ago - we were asked to convince someone why we were the best student. I should also clarify that we were asked to include certain criteria, such as the word 'inimitable' (meaning - impossible to copy) and a statistic. Of course, as the intelligent person I am, I left it until the night before, mainly because i thought the stimulus was insanely boring and just really didn't want to write it, so i decided to attempt (very much the operative word right there) to disprove it. Really enjoyed writing this, even though it probably doesn't make much sense to anyone except me. Hope you enjoyed :)

Song suggestion - Are You Satisfied? - Marina