Junior Natalie Schmitt maintains a 4.0 GPA through her junior year. She balances a schedule that consists of working at a local cafe shop. Along with being named a synchronized swimming captain for the upcoming season, Schmitt also still remains active in Girl Scouts during the time she is not swimming.
A Yale study shows that around 75% of students are stressed about their grades. This highlights how common academic pressure is among teenagers. Schmitt explained how she handles setbacks and tough days academically.
“I take the loss, and then I just move into the next day and just try again,” she said.
Around 1.2% of all high school students maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA. Schmitt explained that balancing such a heavy workload has taught her to approach problems differently. It has pushed her to stay organized and manage her time carefully.
“I’m very focused on time when I plan anything. I need to know exactly when it will start and end. I organize my tasks by how long they’ll take, tackling the more time-consuming ones first and saving the quicker, easier tasks for later,” Schmitt said.
Schmitt also explained things she has improved on over time through balancing school and synchro. She further shares that her success comes from learning “time management and knowing what to prioritize over another thing.” These skills help her maintain a 4.0 GPA while still making time for her activities, job and the people around her.
However, Schmitt still finds time to create memories with friends and family. Junior Jayda Peatross recalled memories she has made with her. She added that these moments show a more fun side of Schmitt that balances out her busy academic and extracurricular life.
“Last year during Christmas time, we made cookies and stuff together at her house and it was really fun,” Peatross said. She added that Schmitt is a “bubbly person.”
In addition, Schmitt’s influence is felt beyond her accomplishments and into the classroom. U.S. history teacher Ryan Miller explained how she impacts the classroom beyond just being a student. She helps other students, joins class discussions and shows hard work and dedication that encourage everyone around her.
“I think her level of engagement, her eye contact, her ability to follow instruction, and her willingness to check in with peers all build toward a more positive classroom environment,” Miller said.
Furthermore, Miller added that she has “continued to ready herself for the challenge of the next assessment.” He explained that Schmitt’s steady effort helps her succeed in her own work and motivates other students in the classroom. By consistently working hard and staying prepared, she sets a positive example that encourages her classmates to try their best.
Overall, Schmitt shows that success is not just about grades. While keeping a 4.0 GPA, she also makes time for her activities, her job and the people around her. Her positive attitude and work ethic are shown through her ability to handle challenges. She continues to stay motivated and keeps pushing forward even when things get difficult.
