What Makes a Good Student (Hint: It’s Not Just Grades)
What is the difference between a good student and a good learner? Or are they the same thing? Today on Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You, Cathy and Meredith unpack an article from the Harvard Gazette titled ‘What makes a good student’ and share their take on it. They explain that it’s not just about grades—especially with grade inflation—but about things like curiosity, integrity, and being open to different ideas. They also explore how integrity can look different in high school versus college, the importance of engaging with all the different aspects of your college experience, and what schools are really looking for in a student. They emphasize that a good learner is someone who takes risks, asks the right questions (and keeps asking them), and is someone who truly wants to understand more. The main takeaway is that real learning isn’t about perfect notes or staying busy; it’s about being engaged, thinking deeply, and genuinely wanting to grow.
Key Points From This Episode:
[0:00:49] Today’s topic of conversation: what makes a good student.
[0:01:12] Why it’s important we talk about this.
[0:02:20] Our thoughts on why integrity matters (and the reality of it).
[0:04:45] Entering college without understanding what a college professor counts as cheating.
[0:05:04] The importance of minding all the different parts of your college experience.
[0:06:10] A key distinction between a good student and a good learner.
[0:10:15] Cathy and Meredith share practical tips to inspire intellectual curiosity.
[0:13:00] Why students should ask the right questions (on repeat!)
[0:14:30] A willingness to engage with perspectives that aren’t the same as yours.
[0:18:10] Confusing busyness with learning.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: