The Cherry on Top

Nina Taleb-Bendiab (’23) reflects on how a pervasive attitude of perfectionism impacts student learning & writing. “It is not sustainable for our motives to solely be based on outcomes. We need to learn how to accept failures as opportunities and realize that perfection doesn’t automatically equate to extreme success.”

The Importance of Atomic Habits

Rachel Hardy (’24) reflects on the book Atomic Habits by James Clear and how its advice applies to writing. “It’s important to see that atomic habits are what makes us, us. It’s what determines how we live, what we do day to day, and how we carry ourselves.”

Academic Validation: The Issues with a Single Measure of Intelligence

Olivia Palmbos (’23) writes a timely piece on academic validation. “Academic validation, stemming from a need to feel validated in one’s intelligence based on academic success, is a surprisingly normalized occurrence in our society that can warp into a toxic mindset under the wrong pretense.”

Reflecting on Set Standards in English Classes

Dylan Schueler (’23) advocates for a different approach to grading in the English classroom. “…it’s more important to grade students based on where they started on the scale compared to where they ended. Growth mindset isn’t just about opening yourself up to new ideas, but it’s also about growth of the mind over a period of time.”

Introversion and Leadership

Jasmine Chou (’23) explores the particular and often undervalued strengths introverts have as leaders. “…introverts are good listeners and tend to be better at observing everything that goes on around them. Because of this, they will be willing to hear everyone out and then later be able to take all input from what they see and hear and make a decision based more on everyone’s ideas, rather than just their own opinion.”