It opens doors.
-Susan, 47, NJ, USA Education is important to me because it is preparing me for my future. I hope to go to a good school so that I can learn a lot about computer science and get a good job. I want to have financial security for me and my future family, and a good education can open these doors for me. Education seems very important to help me follow this path and help me secure this future goal.
-Fiona, 17, NJ, USA Learning makes me a better person and equips me to navigate the wonders and challenges of the world.
-Natalie, 17, NJ, USA Because my education allows me to grow as a person and develop skills that I will use throughout my life.
-Marissa, 18, NJ, USA Knowledge is power. education is a right. I love to learn, I love to know, and I want to know more. If I want to make an impact in the world, I need to know more. If I want to understand the world, I need to know more. I want to know more.
-Aviva, 17, CA, USA Education helps me be more informed about myself and the world around me, and it allows me to be exposed to other viewpoints and opinions, and be less close-minded. Also, the world is just really interesting, and I think it’s really amazing to learn about it and everything and everyone on it.
-Grace, 16, CA, USA Knowledge is power and the more you succeed in life the more you get.
-Nina, 17, CA, USA So you have knowledge of facts and history.
-Madeline, 26, CA, USA I love to learn anything and everything, and educating myself allows me to do just that; it allows my brain to soak up all the information I can.
-Daniella, 17, NJ, USA I love to learn, I want all of the opportunities I want to be open to me!
-Mira, 17, NJ, USA No one can take your education away from you. Build a future for yourself, don’t rely on anyone else. A solid foundation for your life comes from you.
-Cristina, 32, NJ, USA To better understand how the world works and thinks and how to contribute your own opinions to the intellect of the world.
-Morgan, 16, NJ, USA Because you need to be able to care for yourself.
-Amy, 31, NJ, USA It helps prepare you for the future, and allows you to become an active member of society. I think this is especially important as a girl because we need to have our voices heard, and that's not an easy feat even with an education.
-Cassia, 17, NJ, USA It means I get to learn anything and everything I could ever want to know, and there are so many incredible and unthinkable things I still have yet to learn about the world and about myself.
-Katherine, 18, Hong Kong Learning and curiosity are the most beautiful gift of life; having so much more to learn is what gives life meaning.
-Ansa, 15, CA, USA It helps people understand the real world and encourages them to contemplate everything. It can offer a meaning/goal in life... leads you to a more fulfilling life.
-Clara, 15, WA, USA Knowledge is power!
-Jaime, 31, NJ, USA Education is the foundation to a happy and successful future. Education allows you to solve any problem that comes your way.
-Raymond, 17, CA, USA It’s an opportunity many people don’t have the luxury of having and I want to work my best with the opportunity I’ve been given.
-Laura, 18, Ireland Education is important because we should always be learning. However, how one learns best varies.
-Nadia, 17, NJ, USA Because it allows people to understand the world, to understand the options and choices available in their lives, and to cultivate various skills that are important for personal growth. Education can come in all shapes and sizes, but the most important is that it plants a seed of curiosity in those who are willing to learn, so that they can pursue a passion they care about.
-Sabrina, 18, Hong Kong It is a privilege that not a lot of people get so I make the most of it and plan to help share that privilege with others when I get the chance.
-Sumana, 15, NJ, USA Because knowledge is the key to beholding great power and also it's very important for the future.
-Julia, 17, NJ, USA To learn. Learning is the most fundamental part of growth. It's not just textbooks that you learn from, but there are many social or political affairs that you learn, which helps you grow into a better person.
-Rachel, 16, Hong Kong If we aren’t educated we can’t make informed choices regarding ourselves or other topics.
-Karen, 16, Dublin, Ireland I think all education is important self and classroom taught, you need to have a proper education to understand and communicate. I can't say I think everything taught in school is important to when your out on your own. I think you need to pay attention to what grabs you and hold on to that, when your in school not everything will be for you but it's important to try. It's important to focus in school because not all the drama/social things going on in your life will be there once your out. I think kids these days need to know how important it is to realize once your out on your own nothing else matters other that what you learned in those 18 years of your life.
-Amanda, 23, CA, USA I believe it gives you the tools to have a successful life.
-Kathy, 49, NJ, USA It is something that will never be taken away from you. It is the portal to knowledge and being well informed in different topics.
-Kathy, 27, CA, USA To have a greater understanding of the world around us and to build opinions.
-Mackenzie, 21, NJ, USA It’s important to me because it will help me stabilize my future and not worry about financial needs.
-Katherine, 17, CA, USA Education has helped me find a career I enjoy, it has provided me the skill set to be successful, independent and flexible to choose jobs that suit my lifestyle and allow me to pursue other interests, travel and raise a family. Education has provided me with a perspective on life and molded my values. It has helped me voice my opinions and given me the tools to bring about a change in my lives and hopefully in others too.
-Gayathri, 40, NJ, USA Education is transformational. It can open up your mind to an idea or thought that you never would have had before. You can see the world from different angles and look for patterns of meaning. It elevates you in a very unique way.
-Marlena, 27, Queensland, Australia I want to keep learning about my environment, the things people have done in the past, and how things work. The more I know, the more my empathy and understanding grows. I can discuss more with people about our opinions, based on facts. And solutions to problems can be found.
-Nikitha, 18, NJ, USA Because it gives you lots of opportunities in life. And it's fun to learn new things. I am always learning new things.
-Charlotte, 53, NJ, USA To me, the very process of learning is enjoyable. Every mastery of a new topic or skill is an accomplishment. In terms of school learning, I appreciate the subject matter. However, I think that tests are detrimental to the learning process. By placing too much focus on tests, students are prompted to cram instead of studying at their own pace. In other words, tests don't help you learn stuff, they help you forget stuff. This went on a tangent really fast rip (but i have Opinions On Testing). Of course, education isn't only confined to a school environment. I believe that a person can never stop learning. This doesn't mean that a person must learn as much as possible before they die, but I certainly would like to.
-Em, 16, CA, USA It awakens possibilities in life. On the practical side, it prepares you for the real world and allows you to be competitive.
-Dany, 56, VT, USA Being able to get an education is a privilege that many people in the US take for granted, getting an education opens up new opportunities for you to advance your career and your life.
-Maeve, 23, NJ, USA Education gives people a purpose and a way to help their community doing something that they love. Education also makes people more conscious of what's happening around them, and helps us understand cultural and racial differences.
-Natalie, 17, NJ, USA Because it impacts my college and job.
-Sofia, 12, NJ, USA Because education is everything and not many things are more important in life.
-Victoria, 13, NJ, USA Education is important to me because its the fuel to my future, and to be able to learn is something that so many people take for granted but not everyone understands that, so I want to try my best to get a good education and impact the world because of it.
-Sophia, 15, IN, USA It makes you a better person. You know and learn about the society.
-Jade, 14, CA, USA AGAIN... SO MANY THINGS education is the bases of life.
-Piper, 12, CA, USA I think learning things–not only information but skills like social interaction and ways to deal with problems–is super important.
-Hannah, 16, CA, USA Education is the only way to true equality.
-Cindy, 17, CA, USA It allows us to make the world a better place. super cheesy, but it makes us all equals and lets us make informed decisions.
-Bridget, 17, CA, USA It's the only thing that can't be taken away from you. I know that sounds really cliché, but having knowledge of the world around you gives you the ability to improve your life and help others.
-Victoria, 18, NJ, USA Education is knowledge, it's awareness about what's happening in the world. If you want to challenge yourself and continue learning, you have to have education so you don't become ignorant. You can understand more with education, it's something that nobody realizes they need until they don't have it.
-Emily, 15, CA, USA Expands all your horizons, education makes you see differently.
-Smiljana, 61, NJ , USA To relate better to others and open the world up to yourself in so many ways job etc.
-Terri, 53, NY, USA It’s important because it strengthens my mind, makes me smarter, able to help others, and feel good about myself.
-Jennifer, 42, NY, USA Keeps your brain sharp and allow you to accomplish things you wouldn't be able to without it.
-Sara, 36, NY, USA This world is beautiful and curious - the more we educate ourselves the more opportunities we open ourselves up to to experience it.
-Cara, 41, NY, USA Once you learn something, it can't ever be taken away from you. Knowledge is power, and hopefully you'll never stop learning.
-Anonymous So I can get a job that pays well and I enjoy so I can support my family.
-Chloe, 17, NY, USA Your mind needs to be challenged in order for you to grow and make a good useful life for yourself and your family.
-Carole, 74, SC, USA Education opens the path to goals and careers that could not be reached otherwise.
-Emma, 18, TX, USA Because I love learning and I'm privileged to be getting an education when many girls all over the world cannot have access to one.
-Rachel, 17, CA, USA Because nobody can ever take education away from you.
-Brooke, 17, ME, USA Education enables me to stay informed and actively participate in the world around me.
-Katie, 18, MD, USA Knowledge is power! Education is such a gift that can never stop giving. I am so grateful for my opportunity to receive a quality education, and it’s truly a shame that not everyone can say the same.
-Astrid, 18, NM, USA Education is important to me because not only do I believe that education paves the way to a better quality of life, but I also believe that education makes us all more open-minded, accepting, and kind human beings.
-Kassen, 17, CO, USA Education is the key to achieve my career goals.
-Kate, 18, AZ, USA Education opens a world of possibilities, both professional and personal. The more you learn about the world, the more interested and interesting you become.
-Holly, 64, NJ, USA I want to become the most beneficial part of society that I can be and I'm always curious to learn more about anything.
-Cameron, 17, CO, USA It is the key to life. Chance favors the prepared mind.
-Ann, 67, NJ, USA It helps me get into good colleges.
-Faith, 14, NY, USA In order to be happy and helpful in this world I believe an education is necessary.
-Lee, 57, NY, USA Education frees the mind and is important for survival in this crazy world.
-Pat, 62, NJ, USA Developing my mind, body and soul have always been important to me. Learning is fun for me. I have always been curious.
-Meg, 49, NY, USA So that I can go to college and get a good job; to have knowledge.
-Nikki, 14, NY, USA To learn to get the career that you are looking to have. And to help your resume.
-Alexis, 34, NY, USA Education is everything to me because I strongly believe that knowledge is power. Without learning history, how can we learn from past mistakes to ensure that we do not repeat them? If we cannot read, how can we read about people who we can relate to when we feel lonely, be inspired by others to make changes in our own lives without ever meeting those we read about, or stay in the same place yet escape to a place on the other side of the world? To me, education is like tools or blocks. In school, you are given the tools and taught how to use them. Then, later in life, you use the tools to build a life for yourself. Without these blocks and tools, it is difficult to create anything.
-Ashley, 17, NJ, USA Education, though at times I do question why I need everything I learn about, is very important for your future. Maybe you don’t like math but yeah, everyone has to take it and it’s annoying. But you won’t be stuck in math forever! Keep your head up.
-Jamie, 15, NY, USA You must never stop growing.
-Julie, 52, NJ, USA I think it is important to continue learning, no matter where you are in life. It is a privilege to learn absolutely everything you can and it creates new opportunities and gives you options.
-Dana, 23, NJ, USA Education makes more opportunities available to you, which gives you more choices in life.
-Elena, 33, NJ, USA Education is the one thing no one can take from you. You can lose all of your material possessions, your friends and your family; you will always have your education.
-Carrie, 41, NJ, USA Education teaches analytical thinking, and that helps in everyday life. It teaches you empathy for others, and gives you an open mind to consider other ideas and beliefs without necessarily either accepting or condemning them.
-Clarissa, 51, TX, USA Education is a valuable tool for progressing in society and it will open you to things you never knew. It will challenge your opinions and make you stronger. Education is personally important to me, because it has created the person I am and allowed me to do things I never thought possible.
-Andrea, 27, MN, USA Now that I am older, I realize a better education might have offered me the chance to follow my dreams. I've had "fun" jobs but not a career.
-Linda, 66, NJ, USA You want to be able to support yourself. Don’t depend on someone else.
-Jerri, 55, GA, USA Getting an education allows you to explore different areas of knowledge. This, in turn helps you understand your interests and passions. Life is so much fuller when you have dreams and passions.
-Meagan, 37, MD, USA Because it allows me to expand my wealth of knowledge and gives me a different outlook on life.
-Natalie, 19, NJ/PA, USA |
Education isn't just about getting into a top college or getting the best job with the best salary. Education is something I value because it lets me lift my head high and be able to understand as much about society and innovation as possible, and allowing myself to explore my curiosities.
-Marisa, 17, NJ, USA Education allows me to feel productive and gain insight on the world around me.
-Rea, 17, NJ, USA Learning will never do you harm. Knowing more about the world you were born in will give you a new perspective on everything.
-Sabina, 17, NJ, USA It’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that the education I’m getting is so different from people a town or two over from me. I’m used to a very competitive town where everyone is so tightly wound and very high and mighty. However, after starting the college process I have started to see how my rigorous education, while overwhelming, is enabling me to get into amazing programs that could really shape my career as well as who I am as a person, and for that I am truly grateful.
-Madison, 18, NJ, USA It determines my future.
-Meg, 17, NJ, USA Education is the gateway to innovation and justice. My whole identity revolves around the fact that I’m in college furthering my educational interests. For example, I am a mechanical engineer, and being a female in an all male dominated field has indirectly educated me through ways I never expected.
-Victoria, 18, NJ, USA Education is important because education will get me far in life. Without it you won’t get very far.
-Alexandra, 17, NJ, USA It’s empowering, because when I know something, I can decide for myself how to use that piece of knowledge. I don’t have to blindly follow someone else’s beliefs.
-Alyssa, 17, USA Because I want to be great I’m my adult life.
-Jewel, 16, CA, USA So that you can use it in later life, to get different perspectives and understandings of things.
-Nina, 17, NJ, USA The more you read, the more you know the more you know the smarter you grow the smarter you grow the louder your voice when speaking your mind or making a choice (Dr Seuss).
-Analisa, 17, NJ, USA I know that I will need education to succeed in life and to make money to support my family and travel the world.
-Pooja, 17, NJ, USA It’ll help me establish a good future. Work now, enjoy later.
-Ashley, 15, CA, USA I will have many more opportunities in my life because I’ve chosen to continue my education.
-Alexandra, 29, NJ, USA A good education will set you up for the rest of your life.
-Ashley, 28, NJ, USA It’s so important to expand your knowledge in all aspects of life. Education is a privilege. It can bring people never ending opportunities.
-Stephanie, 22, NJ, USA It’s important because in this day you can’t make a living just out of a high school diploma. If you want to have a good life you must have an education.
-Jessie, 17, CA, USA Because I enjoy learning, and doing well.
-Jasmine, 17, Hong Kong Because it has opened doors of opportunity that would have never been possible…
-Emily, 40, MA, USA It’s a gateway to maximizing my potential. You can be as smart and talented as can be, but if you aren’t educated it will all go to waste.
-Alessandra, 35, NJ, USA Education is empowerment.
-Jessica, 44, NJ, USA Education is power. Once you learn about things -- whether that be science, social justice issues, or even about others, you learn about the world. Maybe rote learning isn't for you, and maths doesn't make sense to you. That's fine -- education exists in so many shapes and forms. It's going to get hard -- hell, most of the time grades seem arbitrary and school feels like a sh*thole. But keep trying to find things to learn from. Empower yourself.
-Samantha, 17, Hong Kong It sets the tone of your present and future.
-Monique, 36, NJ, USA Growth is important. Without education your knowledge is limited.
-Katie, 32, NJ, USA It is important to be educated because you need to know what decisions made by you or others is going to affect you. It is important to be educated because things change so often that you need to be able to adapt and use the knowledge you have learned to do so.
-Micaela, 24, NJ, USA Education is the foundation of the rest of your life. Real life skills, as well as factual concepts are all taught at schools and all are necessary to thrive in difficult environments.
-Nikita, 16, CA, USA Education for me is the key to success. My grandparents are Chinese immigrants, so as you can probably imagine, education is considered very important. Through education, my mom was able to create a better life for herself and her (future) family.
-Cara, 16, CA, USA Life has so much detail condensed into it. If you allow your mind to open up, you could learn very interesting things. The education you receive will help you be your best self and make good decisions.
-Raychel, 16, CA, USA It's the gateway to a lot of future opportunities. Try hard to do your best :)
-Elaine, 17, CA, USA My education allows me to understand new things quickly and gives me the confidence to take on challenges.
-Amisha, 43, NJ, USA It is needed for everything.
-Daisy, 34, CA, USA Because some people are at a disadvantage and are unable to have the opportunity and I want to take advantage of the one I have.
-Veronika, 15, CA, USA It will determine my success in the future as it will be easier for me to get a job if I am well educated.
-Kara, 16, NJ, USA No one can take it away from you. Once you have your degree, it's yours forever!
-Gina, 40, NJ, USA The more knowledge you have the better to deal with whatever is put to you.
-Diana, 57, CA, USA Cause it’s the foundation for me to accomplish anything.
-Amanda, 18, NJ, USA Opportunities.
-Josephine, 46, NJ, USA Education is so important in helping a person grow and mature. Learning something new everyday is good for everyone regardless of your age.
-Carrie, 49, NJ, USA Its life I love to learn I feel alive and present.
-Pam, 53, NJ, USA Because I know that the harder I work for my education the more chances and opportunities I have in the future that have opened up.
-Nyna, 15, CA, USA Education allows you to understand more of the world and to see things from different perspectives. When you are able to do that, you become more empathetic — and empathy can change the world.
-Ali, 28, FL, USA Especially in our day and age, education is one of the key factors that will influence our futures. Not only is education important for us to be successful in the future, but educating ourselves is important because knowledge and information is interesting and there is an endless amount of it.
-Aayushi, 14, CA, USA It's important to not be ignorant.
-Karis, 18, Hong Kong To gain the skills needed for a good job so that I can make a living for myself.
-Tina, 18, Hong Kong Increase my awareness and help with career.
-Morgan, 21, NJ, USA It helps one get into the trade or career they want to be in.
-Aliyah, 18, NJ, USA It makes you smarter and it will most likely guarantee a good job.
-Isabelle, 11, NJ, USA Education is important to me because it gives me control of my life. Without knowledge, I would be subject to the beliefs and indoctrination of others; learning enables me to think for myself. Education is also important to me because I genuinely enjoy learning. There are so many things I don’t know, and so many things I’m curious about.
-Allison, 17, NJ, USA Education is important to me because it leads to the path of success. Education is necessary to starting a career and helps you find what your passionate about. When you fill your brain will knowledge you allow yourself to discover what you truly care about.
-Hannah, 14, NJ, USA It helps me to feel fully developed and well rounded. It keeps me motivated and energized to learn new things. I work in a position that I educate others about their body, so keeping on top of the newest research in the medical field or just finding new ways to present information to others to get them motivated to care for themselves is critical for work. When I can get through to someone to better themselves and their overall function, it is the reason I do my job.
-Megan, 37, GA, USA It helps me cope with current events, I need to learn something to feel okay, to feel useful. it's fun for me, I love school and learning things. also, it'll definitely help for my future.
-Baylee, 12, CA, USA I hope it gets me somewhere in life so I can potentially help other learn.
-Allie, 13, NY, USA Education helps us develop a perspective on the world. It offers you opportunities, gives us the keys to locked doors.
-Anonymous Education is important to me because it's what allows me to express my thoughts and opinions on different issues that I face. I consider education as my tool to get through and to create my own path for my life.
-Amy, 18, South Korea To further choices in life as a working adult.
-Jane, 66, NJ, USA Education is what will help you get a good career later in life.
-Riley, 13, NJ, USA Education gives me opportunities that I wouldn’t be able to get any other way.
-Georgia, 17, CA, USA You open far more doors for yourself.
-Vincenzo, 63, AZ, USA School is where you learn to manage time and work, and more importantly, meet different people and learn to accept them for who they are.
-Sophia, 14, NJ, USA It will help me be successful in life.
-Molly, 13, NJ, USA It's the only way to move forward in life.
-Bella, 16, CA, USA Because it’s something no one can take away from you.
-Alex, 36, NJ, USA It has been and will always be, one should always be learning, growing and questioning.
-Peppi, 60, NJ, USA I have devoted my entire professional life to education. It is so important to be well informed and well educated in today's world. It is particularly important for women to be educated so that they can aspire to positions of leadership and authority. It is also important to be self empowered and for us to have our own financial security, regardless of our marital status.
-Josephine, 65, NJ, USA So I can get a good job and provide enough money for my future family to live happy/ healthy lives.
-Ava, 17, NY, USA So I can be successful and my best self.
-Angela, 15, NY, USA The external reason is that the things I want to do with my life require a strong education. Innately, I like learning for the sake of learning and I think it's important that I understand the ways the world works whether it be physically, socially, economically etc.
-Darcy, 17, CT, USA We all need to learn and grow everyday. An education will help you reach your dreams.
-Cheryl, 51, NJ, USA So you can get a good job in the future to help you support yourself and your family.
-Allie, 14, NY, USA I want to be successful later in life and have a high-paying intellectual job.
-Anonymous Knowledge is power. Being well rounded is important. Education gives you earning capacity and independence.
-Risa, 55, NJ, USA Education opens doors. It teaches you about the world and gives you the skills to help you reach your goals. It lets you experience different people and different points of view.
-Doreen, 51, NJ, USA I think learning is the basis of all things.
-Emily, 15, NY, USA Young people are the future of our world, and if we want to build a better world than the one we are currently living in, we need to be educated so we can make decisions that will benefit all the inhabitants of this world.
-Emma, 17, NC, USA Ultimately the part of you that is you is inside your brain. Making the most of yourself really does boil down to learning as much as you can.
-Susan, 65, NJ, USA I am interested in learning new things every day because there is so much to know.
-Laura, 63, NY, USA Aside from the employment issue, I think living is dull if there's nothing you want to learn. And having to learn things (as in school) lets you find out about things that you wouldn't have discovered on your own. It's a boost socially to be able to carry on intelligent conversation, and as a friend explained to her five year old, daughter, "you want to become a useful person."
-Gerry, 71, NJ, USA Education is key to being a well rounded person ready to contribute and compete in our complicated world. It is important to become exposed to and learn about the arts, music, and the performing arts. This enriches and brings beauty to our lives. My father always said that after family, education is the most important thing in our lives. Education can also raise one from poverty to a happy successful, independent life, contributing to our society and economy.
-Nina, 62, NJ, USA A good education is the first step to a successful life.
-Danielle, 18, NJ, USA It's the only thing that can that can't be taken away.
-Lorena, 50, NJ, USA Education is knowledge; knowledge is power. Also, education exposes you to different perspectives which broadens your thinking.
-Laurie, 38, NJ, USA Everyone benefits from continuous learning.
-Karen, 52, NJ, USA It helps you build a solid foundation.
-Lori, 50, NJ, USA It is the key to achieving your goals and opening doors to your future.
-Lauren, 28, NJ, USA My education is important to me because there are millions of women across the world in other countries who don’t have access to any form of education, let alone college. I am getting an education to help these women and their future children.
-Rebecca, 18, NJ, USA Education is important because it opens your mind to new ideas and perspectives, which allows you to listen well to others and hear their stories. Without listening and learning from others, we can't be a tolerant, kind, caring community of people.
-Jamie, 33, NJ, USA Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” You have to learn to grow, and grow to change. Education can make all the difference in your world and the world around you.
-Lucy, 28, KY, USA No one can ever take away what you have in your head. And your education never stops. Yes, your formal education is important and will help you understand the world and yourself. But your informal education is important too. Never stop learning, never stop being curious and asking questions and you will continue to grow as a person for the rest of your life. The more you know, the more power you have over your decision-making process. Ultimately, you are responsible for yourself and the more you know, the better you are able to take care of yourself. Every skill you develop makes you less dependent on others. Learn to write and speak well; they are skills that have to be practiced and developed, not innate talents that you "just have." Whether you like it or not, whether you think it is fair or not, people will judge you by the way you speak and the way your write. Hone those skills to arm yourself, so that you can advocate for yourself and the things that matter to you.
-Trixie, 41, NJ, USA For greater success.
-Angela, 43, NJ, USA |
I prioritize my education first and foremost, but I've been taking more time to do things that make me happy too. I've recently been crocheting a lot, and that just makes me feel happy.
-Fiona, 17, NJ, USA I try my hardest in school, but I try to not let it hinder my social life or my extracurriculars. My schedule is very busy, but I try to not let my homework and studying get in the way of my outside life.
-Marisa, 17, NJ, USA Remember to make time for those who care about you, including yourself. Time management is key. Keep a planner and stick to it.
-Sabina, 17, NJ, USA Limiting procrastination.
-Meg, 17, NJ, USA I give myself a set schedule so each thing I want/need to do has a certain amount of time dedicated to it. It helps me diversify my day and also it stops me from being too caught in something, which can be good sometimes, but it’s also good to take a breather and take a step back to see the whole picture.
-Alyssa, 17, USA I take it one class at a time.
-Jewel, 16, CA, USA Time management and discipline. Being busy all the time has always been a part of my life growing up though.
-Morgan, 16, NJ, USA I try to balance more education throughout the week, along with extracurriculars and relax on weekends by either sleeping more, catching up on TV shows, or hanging out with friends and family.
-Pooja, 17, NJ, USA I just take it day by day.
-Ashley, 15, CA, USA After my loved ones and my health, it takes top priority.
-Alexandra, 29, NJ, USA Prioritising is super important. There are a million and one things I want to do, and if I can’t do them now because of more important things, I’ll always have time in the future.
-Katherine, 18, Hong Kong Priorities. I make a list of everything I have to do and when.
-Stephanie, 22, NJ, USA Organize, especially scheduling downtime to socialise or to relax.
-Jasmine, 17, Hong Kong Take the long view on the situation. School is important but it is not the only thing that matters. Taking care of your stress and planning frequent breaks while studying is important.
-Emily, 40, MA, USA I have a tight schedule and a clear sense of my priorities. Ideally, my schedule lets me spend time on the important things and the fun things, but when a conflict arises, I am always ready to put the fun things on hold until I get the things that matter most accomplished.
-Alessandra, 35, NJ, USA Avoiding social media.
-Nadia, 17, NJ, USA I use a lot of time management by planning out what time I want to sleep and dividing the time I have before that.
-Sumana, 15, NJ, USA It's all about time management, which is a really valuable life skill that I think everyone needs to learn. Every person has to find a balance between doing homework and other activities, but also you have to make time for yourself.
-Julia, 17, NJ, USA There is no easy way, I'm still not really a master at it, but time management is key. Do all your priorities and try to watch less YouTube for leisure. Start picking up a book and a few hobbies you'd like to pursue. You'll be more productive. And don't watch videos when you work it's not good.
-Rachel, 16, Hong Kong Make a plan that deals with when you do school work and when you have time for yourself and try to stick to it as much as possible.
-Karen, 16, Dublin, Ireland It's not easy - I try to make time for studying & having fun. It can't just be all of one...
-Kathy, 49, NJ, USA Do what you need to do in order to be happy and have the future you want.
-Raychel, 16, CA, USA Support from friends and therapy.
-Elaine, 17, CA, USA One step at a time.
-Daisy, 34, CA, USA Discipline and efficiency are two important words to remember. Identifying the important things in your life and allotting appropriate amounts of time for each activity on a weekly basis is important. Time is always limited, so become efficient in doing tasks. Focus on the task at hand and don't let other things crowd your mind. Have the discipline to wake up 1/2 hr early if you need to get that music practice done. Make sure you leave room for some lazing around and having fun every week...all work and no play is not good either. Prioritize everything in your life...there will be more parties in the future if you have an important math test or audition coming up.
-Gayathri, 40, NJ, USA Learning needs to be a life-long mission.
-Gina, 40, NJ, USA Sometimes things can get overwhelming and I’m balancing my school work with my tutoring job with things around the house. In those overwhelming moments, it’s important for me to take breaks and rest. I surround myself with people that care about me and I become less worried about getting everything in my life perfect. Take a moment to appreciate what you have and who you have. And appreciate yourself.
-Nikitha, 18, NJ, USA Continuing education is part of maintaining my Registered Nursing License. I fit in classes when I can and I do courses online.
-Carrie, 49, NJ, USA I try to finish homework as quickly as possible, asking for help if needed. Typically this isn't very challenging. Over time, I develop more insight as to which homework to do when. Physics homework is long and detailed, so I do it on the weekends. Spanish homework can be done in half an hour after dinner, unless there is a test. And so forth. To balance education with extracurriculars, as I mentioned previously, I keep a planner and try to keep the amount of things I do each day relatively constant and realistic, allowing for some variation. Depending on the time, I put more time into either academics or extracurriculars.
-Em, 16, CA, USA Planner.
-Morgan, 21, NJ, USA I try my best to schedule out my day and make sure I'm not putting too much on my plate. During high school I took every free second to get homework done so that I could focus on my after school sports and have time to relax when I got home.
-Maeve, 23, NJ, USA I use coping skills, and time management skills so I make sure I have enough time to study and have fun.
-Aliyah, 18, NJ, USA I try to finish my homework fast when I get home from school so I can go to my activities,
-Isabelle, 11, NJ, USA Truthfully, finding the balance between school, extracurricular, and social life had been difficult for me because there are so many things I’d like to do but only so many hours in the day. Education is very important to me so I have definitely prioritized that, but I try to spend a few hours a day doing things unrelated to school, whether that’s an extracurricular activity, a hobby, or even just lying in bed watching Netflix.
-Allison, 17, NJ, USA I put education as my number one priority, since school is very important. I still make time though for dance, Girl Scouts, and my friends and family though by just writing everything down. That way I can check whether I’m keeping things balanced in my life.
-Hannah, 14, NJ, USA "Education" doesn't always have to be at school. You can educate yourself through jobs and community service, and it's important to engage in fulfilling tasks, not just powering through homework.
-Cindy, 17, CA, USA Meditation and chill time.
-Piper, 12, CA, USA Self care comes first no matter what. Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many after school activities or you’ll go crazy trying to do them all. Do what you love, and you’ll make time for everything in between.
-Julia, 15, CA, USA Swimming takes up most of my time. Most of my time out of school is spent doing homework or swimming. Homework comes first, I have to be confident that I can finish my homework before I go to swimming, even if that means staying up quite late.
-Baylee, 12, CA, USA Education is not a key to success. Happiness is and your health and well-being harnesses that. Don’t take your education for granted and hold onto it for as long as you can, but if you find yourself juggling, put a few things down. Letting go of the things you love is probably one of the hardest things to do and the fact that you need to is even harder to accept, but it will all be worth it because you can go back for it by letting it go. They do say, if you love someone [or something], let them [or it] go.
-Anonymous To be honest, at times I don't. Sometimes (most times) I'll put off homework so I can play an instrument, or text a friend. Your health and well-being are extremely important, and you should find time for the things you love, and if that's school than great! But if you're struggling to keep things together, ask for help, or let something go.
-Anonymous Put the balance 40:30:30; your well-being is 40%, academics is 30%, and relationships is 30%.
-Amy, 18, South Korea I’m really organized- my bullet journal is the only reason I know what’s going on, honestly. I’ve also found a bunch of productivity apps I like (30/30 is my favorite right now.)
-Madeline, 16, CA, USA Sometimes it's hard, but I learn how to manage my time to the fullest capability. My agenda and calendar really help me. Being able to organize my time by writing all my events and work down improve my life so much, I know everything that's happening.
-Emily, 15, CA, USA I find it extremely difficult to balance everything in my life, but I have found that if I just work efficiently and effectively, it becomes more easy to juggle.
-Georgia, 17, CA, USA When you are studying, study. When you are relaxing, relax. Be gentle on yourself.
-Sara, 36, NY, USA Making time for learning, even if I'm not in school currently, is important to me. I might do tutorials online or go to a free class to give something new a try.
-Anonymous There isn't much else going on in my life, but school isn't the most important thing. If there's something I really like and it takes up time from homework, if it's once in a while I'd decide to miss the homework just that once.
-Sophia, 14, NJ, USA Education comes first.
-Chloe, 17, NY, USA One day and one step at a time.
-Carole, 74, SC, USA A lot of my time in spent on school work, but I make sure to set aside an hour or two a day to hang out with people or work on a non-school related project.
-Emma, 18, TX, USA Time management!
-Rachel, 17, CA, USA Don’t let myself waste time. Set aside time for school and time for friends.
-Brooke, 17, ME, USA Time management.
-Ava, 17, NY, USA Don't try and do everything but also don't make school the only thing in your life. Make sure you enjoy the things you are doing outside of class so it doesn't feel like a chore.
-Darcy, 17, CT, USA I wish I could say that I make sure I spend, say, an hour of time each day unwinding, but my schedule is so busy and volatile that I can't ensure my day-to-day schedule will look the same, or even similar. I balance my education with everything else that's going on with my life through communication (with my family and my friends), which helps me mentally organize my priorities and my commitments. I also multitask, but not in a way that could potentially hurt my academic performance...I multitask by watching Youtube videos when I do my ab workouts, listening to music while I shower, and listening to podcasts on the way to school.
-Kassen, 17, CO, USA As a Physician Assistant in order to maintain my license I must document continuing medical education. I mostly find some quiet time when the the house is empty to do my work.
-Risa, 55, NJ, USA Organize. Do the most important or pressing things first. Examine regularly what matters most to you.
-Ann, 67, NJ, USA I set aside time for schoolwork right after school.
-Faith, 14, NY, USA We should be learning throughout our lives. My school days are long gone, but I continue to educate myself. Most of us watch way too much TV, or spend too much time on our computers. When you change that you will have a lot more time on your hands. Also, stop chatting on the phone so much!!
-Lee, 57, NY, USA Do homework and assignments first, then make time for sports and friends.
-Nikki, 14, NY, USA Don’t work and go to school at the same time if your parents can help you. Get the education over with and then worry about the rest of your life. The longer you take to graduate the worse it is.
-Alexis, 34, NY, USA I make sure to never forget the important things in my life.
-Carolina, 18, FL, USA I try to make education my priority, as it has the ability to open so many doors in the future. I feel that a person can always make more friends but once you do not take a risk in academics or miss an opportunity because you did not do your best, that door is closed forever.
-Ashley, 17, NJ, USA Prioritize certain things based on urgency. If the workload is lighter, spend more time with friends, but make sure to stay focused if there is a lot of work to be done.
-Danielle, 18, NJ, USA I make it a priority to learn something new everyday...even if it's something small and insignificant that way I never feel like I'm missing out on learning even when I'm super busy.
-Julie, 52, NJ, USA You learn to make time to feed your mind.
-Lorena, 50, NJ, USA I prioritized my education throughout high school and college. That means I missed out on fun things my friends were doing sometimes. But good friends understand and encourage you when you have important goals.
-Elena, 33, NJ, USA I’m currently getting my masters degree online and I work full time and raising three kids on my own. I make time for my school work every day. It’s not about getting the best grades....I want to learn and know everything I can about what I’m studying.
-Carrie, 41, NJ, USA My formal education is complete, but I think it's important to always continue learning! I participate in conferences and training opportunities at work whenever possible, and in my free time, I listen to tons of educational podcasts and read a lot.
-Lauren, 28, NJ, USA Time Management!
-Lucy, 28, KY, USA I balance life by making a schedule that carves out time for needs as well as wants. I even "schedule in" time to relax by leaving large amounts of time with nothing else to do. My schedule isn't right, so I always feel like I can change what I'm doing to better suit my emotional or physical needs if I have to.
-Andrea, 27, MN, USA I knew my limitations and learned to say no.
-Linda, 66, NJ, USA When I was in school, I tried to have times during the day that were devoted to studying and other times of the day that were devoted to things I wanted to do. You have to give each its time.
-Meagan, 37, MD, USA I’m in college so I’m not in classes all day. I have time that high schoolers don’t have. However, some days I actually have like 6 hours of classes (that end at 8:30pm) so I just stay up super late to finish assignments.
-Natalie, 19, NJ, USA Time management is key to a good balancing act in all aspects of our life.
-Angela, 43, NJ, USA |
A lot of planning ahead and working hard. I find it helps to keep a planner with school stuff and also keep personal stuff on your calendar on your phone.
-Allison, 17, NJ, USA Planning ahead.
-Natalie, 17, NJ, USA I try to plan assignments out so that I don’t have to move my schedule around to accommodate for procrastination. I also prioritize what’s important to me.
-Rea, 17, NJ, USA Take some time for myself and don’t let education dominate my life. If it gets to much, I take a break.
-Marissa, 18, NJ, USA I keep an academic calendar for when assignments are due for classes. (In college, teachers won’t remind you of anything, so you need to stay on top of your stuff.) for extracurriculars, I keep events updated in my phone calendar. Two calendars helps me to not feel overwhelmed by life. And sometimes, it’s good to just not have a plan... keeps life interesting!
-Victoria, 18, NJ, USA Planning, time management, setting goals.
-Mira, 17, NJ, USA One day at a time like everything else. Get a planner, use it. Make a list and check off tasks one at a time. It’s much less daunting that way.
-Cristina, 32, NJ, USA Prioritize yourself. You are just as important as anything else going on.
-Amy, 31, NJ, USA Staying up kinda late to get my fitness routine, work schedule, and family time in.
-Analisa, 17, NJ, USA Prioritize, but don't become a recluse who only studies. High school (and life) can become really stressful at times, so talk to people and let them help you (friends, teachers, parents, etc.) that's why they're there!
-Cassia, 17, NJ, USA Take time to step away from schoolwork to do something you love.
-Ashley, 28, NJ, USA Finding a healthy balance, prioritizing!
-Jaime, 31, NJ, USA Accept that you have stress but know that you can accomplish it.
-Justine, 17, CA, USA Always prioritize school first! Getting good grades and passionately learning your core subjects is very important for the short run and long run. Everything else comes second except family and safety.
-Raymond, 17, CA, USA By planning when I’m going to do work and when I have time to do other things.
-Laura, 18, Ireland Education for me is paramount, with my extracurriculars as a close second.
-Anonymous Prioritisation. Understand that each thing in life has a weight to it, and that understanding what you ultimately want in the bigger picture is important to learning how to prioritise each thing. But never forget that self-care should never be neglected as well.
-Sabrina, 18, Hong Kong Forcing myself to make time for what’s important and avoid procrastinating.
-Katie, 32, NJ, USA It takes a lot of trial and error. I went to college and worked 2 jobs, it was hard but you just learn a routine to make it work.
-Meagan, 32, NJ, USA I am a teacher so education is a huge part of my life.
-Micaela, 24, NJ, USA There's more to life than fun and games, but it isn't all about school either. I just make sure to focus on both to ensure my happiness. Never pack yourself with things to do and classes to take, always leave some time in the week for you to try new things and relax or have fun.
-Nikita, 16, CA, USA I try to prioritize everything first, and then I figure out what needs to be done. I like to stay organized by keeping an organized calendar and making to-do lists to keep track of everything I have to do.
-Cara, 16, CA, USA I always made sure to get a break in between studying to make sure I had a clear mind when continuing a project or book. Life is about taking it easy and of course it has its up and downs but you have to take it easy.
-Kathy, 27, CA, USA Time management is the best thing you can learn.
-Mackenzie, 21, NJ, USA Sometimes I just have to deal with it. Like have one day off and arrange everything and keep a schedule.
-Katherine, 17, CA, USA You have to prioritize it if it’s a priority to you. Years of schooling seem long at the time but they’re a short part of your life and then for most people, that part is over. Balance education with staying active and keeping good company.
-Marlena, 27, Queensland, Australia It’s easy because I have no outside obligations. I don’t play sports and I’m not part of many clubs, so I don’t really have competing things going on in my life. It just kind of naturally balances itself.
-Kara, 16, NJ, USA Very carefully.
-Diana, 57, CA, USA One of the most important ways to manage stress and a growing workload for me is to write absolutely everything I have to do down in my planner. Then there's no pressure for me to remember it off the top of my head. It also makes it easier to prioritize based on urgency and importance of the task - every day I number off my homework assignments by priority. In general, prioritization is an extremely important skill to have, even though it's difficult to master. Sometimes I just have to finish a task that others are relying on me for, but other times I need to put myself first so my grades and health don't fall too behind.
-Selina, 16, CA, USA You just have to do it... plus eating right and try to get sleep... be nice to yourself, talk nice to yourself when possible.
-Pam, 53, NJ, USA It’s important to focus on your education, but not let it engulf the rest of your life. When you work you work and when you have fun, you have fun.
-Nyna, 15, CA, USA Time management, easier said than done.
-Karis, 18, Hong Kong Always set a time for work, and set time for other things. Make sure you don't procrastinate during work time, and to never think about work doing leisure time.
-Tina, 18, Hong Kong I'm no longer in school. At the time though, education came first. I don't think my generation had the same pressures on time as you do now. We didn't have play dates, we just went outside and found someone to play with. Or knocked on a friend's door, or called them up. But we also were able to just walk out our front door and tell our parents we'd be home by dark, we had a lot more freedom so were able to keep busy all the time so there was no need for joining a club or anything, we made our own.
-Dany, 56, VT, USA. I make lists and organize anything that appears as overwhelming in whatever way I see fit.
-Natalie, 17, NJ, USA I stay on task while doing my homework so I get it done as efficiently as possible.
-Sofia, 12, NJ, USA A lot is going on in my life but... I always try to finish my homework first. Then the rest of my night usually consists of hours of sports; where I try my hardest... even when family things, tests and friendship fights are running through my head you always have to stay focused and get through it.
-Victoria, 13, NJ, USA It's a really major part of my life, since I have to go school, but I definitely spend a lot more time on it just because it's really important and everything else is more of a passion and a hobby.
-Sophia, 15, IN, USA That is a very difficult balance at this point in my life. It is not easy to find time to concentrate with two small girls. But I have to force myself to take time out of the day to study and thankfully I have a very supportive husband who helps to take on laundry and making dinner so I have extra time available in my day.
-Megan, 37, GA, USA Education is super important but it's not more important than yourself, your friends and doing things you enjoy. Take easier classes if you need to. Take fewer classes. Skip school to sleep in. Devote those 50 hours a week to an extracurricular activity you really love; the only balance you need is balance in what you love.
-Hannah, 16, CA, USA Prioritise! Sometimes it feels like school is life, but there are a lot of important things like hobbies/interests/family that should be just as important, if not more. Learning your personal prioritisation system and sticking to it is good.
-Bridget, 17, CA, USA Plan your week in advance!
-Allie, 13, NY, USA To be honest, at times I don't. Sometimes (most times) I'll put off homework so I can play an instrument, or text a friend. Your health and well-being are extremely important, and you should find time for the things you love, and if that's school than great! But if you're struggling to keep things together, ask for help, or let something go.
-Anonymous Don't ever forget to take care of yourself. Your body and your mental health should come before your education. If your feeling a lot of stress over your homework or an upcoming test, ask for an extension and take a nap! It's not going to do you any good if you can barely stay awake to study. Eat well too. And go outside and breathe a little.
-Gabriella, 12, CA, USA I try to budget enough time to relax and finish my work quickly enough that I am able to have a life beyond schoolwork.
-Madeline, 18, VT, USA I give myself a certain amount of hours to complete my homework which helps me work efficiently. If I have more work than usual I also give myself breaks.
-Victoria, 18, NJ, USA Planing enough time in your day to exercise and not procrastinating.
-Riley, 13, NJ, USA School comes first when establishing your priorities.
-Terri, 53, NY, USA Education comes first, then everything else.
-Jennifer, 42, NY, USA We are always learning. It’s important to prioritize when and how we focus our time because it’s not a punishment - it’s a gateway to more amazing experiences.
-Cara, 41, NY, USA I take it a little bit at a time because that helps me understand it more.
-Molly, 13, NJ, USA Work on time and stress management.
-Bella, 16, CA, USA I think about each day as separate and make goals for each day understanding that you can only focus on one thing at a time.
-Alex, 36, NJ, USA That's a sticky wicket, the key word is balance because life is all about that. Certainly time management and lots and lots of coffee helps.
-Peppi, 60, NJ, USA That was not always easy, especially since I completed a Master's Degree when my children were little. I was also the principal breadwinner at home, and so I did not have the luxury of devoting all of my time just to my education. I balanced it, however, because I kept my eye on the end goal. I studied after my children were in bed; I never wanted to rob them of their time with me. I also brought them along in my journey and I would explain why completing my Master's was so important, not just for me, but also for our family's success.
-Josephine, 65, NJ, USA I utilize my free time and I take breaks and give myself a break when need be.
-Angela, 15, NY, USA School has always come fairly easily to me, so time management isn’t an issue for me. For the most part, I’m able to finish my school work without conflicting with personal endeavors.
-Astrid, 18, New Mexico, USA By creating timelines to complete the tasks for the day, week and month.
-Cheryl, 51, NJ, USA Set your priorities, education comes first.
-Kate, 18, AZ, USA Education is the priority and it often overshadows everything else.
-Anonymous I always prioritize my education, but I try my best to weave it into the other parts of my life. For example, if I can't find time to be social because I have so much homework, I often do homework with friends.
-Cameron, 17, CO, USA Time Management, even though it sounds corny it's really important to find time to do everything that is on your agenda. If parents can do it so can you.
-Karolina, 18, NJ, USA Dedicate a time for school work and studying. Time management is key.
-Emily, 15, NY, USA Read, read, read, whenever you can.
-Pat, 62, NJ, USA Time management and putting my focus on my passions.
-Meg, 49, NY, USA Your should focus on your education and keeping your grades up, but if it ever gets overwhelming, it is always okay to take some time to relieve stress.
-Emma, 17, NC, USA Give it priority, but friends and family are important too.
-Susan, 65, NJ, USA For young people education is their job, so everything else should fall in place after that. It's different when you have a family to support and have to squeeze it in, so it's important to get as much education as you can when you don't have those responsibilities.
-Gerry, 71, NJ, USA It is a challenge to balance work and home responsibilities as an adult. You need to be creative thinkers and ask for help from your family and friends when you need it. Know you are not alone.
-Nina, 62, NJ, USA Not very well, but there’s many things you can do. If you have off periods or extra time at the end of your classes maybe look over some of the homework you got in other classes. Balance out how much homework you do at once to avoid stress, don’t let it bulk up and try your best not to leave big projects or essays to the last minute.
-Jamie, 15, NY, USA Education is important to me, so I make time for the things that are important to me. No balancing needed, simple as that.
-Laurie, 38, NJ, USA Education is vital, and activities give you brain candy so you can be the best student you can be.
-Karen, 52, NJ, USA Remembering that my education is a priority, but also allowing myself down time and self care days.
-Rebecca, 18, NJ, USA Education comes first, but you have to have some kind of life outside of that to be well-rounded. Sometimes it's an academic club; sometimes it's just hanging around with friends, watching movies, or joining a reading group.
-Clarissa, 51, TX, USA I'm currently a graduate student, so even though I'm in my 30s, I do have to balance education with work and family and friends and my marriage. It can be a lot. Time management is the best skill for balancing all the things happening in your life. I make lists so I can keep my schedule and tasks straight and in order. There are always going to be busy seasons in life and sometimes you just have to buckle down and work hard until you can get a little bit of a break.
-Jamie, 33, NJ, USA I ultimately earned a PhD, so obviously education is important to me and something I prioritize. In a lot of ways, it was (and now is) my "job." It also helps that I love learning and I know learning helps me to be a better, stronger person. The more you learn, the more you get to understand "why." That said, you have to work for balance in ALL things in your life. Too much of one thing (even something you enjoy) means not enough of other things that are important too. When your life is unbalanced in some way, it’s important to figure out why (is it temporary? are you ignoring some other problem? etc...) and make a plan to achieve balance. For example, I was always so busy during grad school, that I rarely got to do anything "fun" for myself, so I always made a point of doing fun stuff during semester breaks. Now that I'm done with school (though never done learning!), I try for balance between the various aspects of my life: work, family, friends, personal time, etc... I don't always achieve it, but by being mindful about it, I do a better job of achieving balance.
-Trixie, 41, NJ, USA |
I encourage everyone to vary your friend groups and find balance between friends. I also encourage having friends from other schools and areas.
-Susan, 47, NJ, USA Cliques are inevitable, but don't let them stop from meeting new and interesting people.
-Natalie, 17, NJ, USA I think that young girls should focus on finding real friends early on, so that they have a support network if they are being bullied by other kids.
-Rea, 17, NJ, USA Cliques are fickle and dissolve really easily. They also won’t matter in five to ten years. Stick it through, and don’t let any clique change who you are.
-Sabina, 17, NJ, USA Cliques fade. Even if they don’t, I would recommend not paying much attention to them.
-Madison, 18, NJ, USA They are necessary part of maturing and growing up and no [girls shouldn’t worry about them].
-Meg, 17, NJ, USA Unfortunately, I think cliques are something that develop very often, especially in middle school (but school in general too). I think that cliques can be alright so long as they include a nice, inclusive group of friends, but when they become exclusionary and judgmental they are a detriment. I don’t think young girls should feel pressured to join a particular clique if they don’t want to; they should chose to be friends with whomever they want. However, if they want to join a particular “clique” friend group, but are prevented from doing so, (I know it’s hard) but talking it out is a good thing, or also just trying to find other friends! People who exclude aren’t always the people you want to associate yourself with anyways.
-Grace, 16, CA, USA Cliques are good in the sense you have a group of people who you feel the most comfortable with, but never let that restrain you from being friendly and making friends with other people. It’s always great to have a lot of people to say hi to and just smile at.
-Alyssa, 17, USA Cliques are here to judge people and I don’t think kids should worry about them.
-Jewel, 16, CA, USA There’s nothing wrong with having a close group of friends. What IS wrong is excluding people or making someone feel left out on purpose. No one likes a mean girl. No one. To the girls being excluded, you don’t want friends like that anyways. Keep moving, you’ll find your place, I promise.
-Cristina, 32, NJ, USA Fit in by standing out.
-Analisa, 17, NJ, USA Cliques are not important and even though they may form, girls don’t need to worry about them because they are just a label that no one cares about and the important part is to have those who truly care about you by your side.
-Pooja, 17, NJ, USA I think cliques are inevitable but I don’t want young girls to stress about it too much. Surround yourself with supportive people who care about your wellbeing and in that environment, you’ll thrive.
-Ashley, 15, CA, USA Cliques will never go away, just be yourself and good people will surround you.
-Ashley, 28, NJ, USA They're natural; try to vary your friend group, don't hang around the same crowd all the time and invite other people in, vary the group that you invite to go out.
-Ansa, 15, CA, USA I am not a big fan of them as they tend to be exclusive and they induce a lot of social pressure on members of the clique. Younger girls should not worry about them.
-Clara, 15, WA, USA Not really, High school isn’t what it seems like in movies to a certain extent. I mean yeah you got your jocks, the anime kids and etc. But you will be fine. Just remember you don’t have to change yourself in order to fit in a clique.
-Jessie, 17, CA, USA I think it is hard to join a clique if you are excluded. Even if people say you shouldn’t concern yourself with it and they’re not worth your time, it seems extremely unrealistic to me to simply not care about being excluded or lonely. However I think the most important thing is to not stoop to their level, so don’t talk behind their back even if they do. Don’t gossip. Eventually it all goes around and people will find out. Moreover it is also important to find friends outside of the clique, that way you can still have people to talk to and feel happy despite being left out from that group.
-Michelle, 16, CA, USA Cliques aren’t great and young girls should try to avoid them.
-Laura , 18, Ireland Don't try to fit into them- your friendships should form naturally.
-Anonymous Cliques, in my experience, are only bad when you don't have one. If you have a group of friends you're close to, that shouldn't be a bad thing, just make sure you're not close minded to having someone else there.
-Nadia, 17, NJ, USA I don't like cliques but they are a reality - girls can't help worrying about them but they should be taught that they aren't always what they seem and there are cons to being in a clique.
-Jessica, 44, NJ, USA It doesn't matter if I find them important or not. If they matter to you, they matter to you, and that's completely normal no matter what high and mighty adults think. But why do they matter to you? Do you want a group of close friends to confide in, who'll always have your back? Do you want to be popular? Why do you want to be popular? Do you want people to look up to you? Why is that? Sometimes, you won't fit in, and you'll only have your mom to talk to, and that's okay, because next year you'll find a new friend. Life goes on, shit gets better. Just remember that sometimes, all you need is a shoulder that is always going to be there for you to cry on.
-Samantha, 17, Hong Kong I believe they are acceptable as long as they are not mean to others because it’s a matter of feeling comfortable with other individuals.
-Katie, 32, NJ, USA I think cliques are a natural part of growing up and I don't think middle school girls should worry too much about them unless there's a clique that's deliberately being mean to them then I think they should be disbanded.
-Julia, 17, NJ, USA Cliques are stupid. Plain stupid. They never last more than a few years. Just try to stay away and don't join one. They bring unnecessary trouble that will only inflict worry and pain. A few close friends are all you need.
-Rachel, 16, Hong Kong Cliques are ridiculous. Yes it’s nice to feel like you belong but if everybody inclusive then we can feel like we belong anywhere and everywhere.
-Karen, 16, Dublin, Ireland They shouldn’t, but they will. We all did. Us adults need to do a better job raising our girls with compassion. Less competition between us.
-Noelle, 33, NJ, USA Cliques have always bothered me. My motto has always been the more the merrier. I don't know why young girls feel its ok to exclude people.
-Kathy, 49, NJ, USA Don’t stress yourself out too much. The people you end up with will be YOUR people.
-Raychel, 16, CA, USA Everyone will worry about cliques at some point in their life, and I would be lying if I said high school cliques are all nice. Just be yourself and you'll find people who appreciate your company.
-Elaine, 17, CA, USA They are difficult, but if someone doesn't want to take the time to get to know you and be your friend, they probably wouldn't have been such a great friend in the first place.
-Amisha, 43, NJ, USA Cliques are not forever, they always change so NO! Younger girls should focus on themselves and being happy.
-Daisy, 34, CA, USA Cliques will always be around and not necessarily a bad thing and as a younger self I aspired to be part of popular groups in school. In retrospect I feel I wasted a lot of time fitting in and would have been better off focusing on my education and interests in school. If you have interests and can find clubs, activities in school to join, these groups might lead to long lasting, meaningful friendships. One should not worry about cliques that are not accepting of everyone or force you to be someone else. Be true to yourself and find friends who bring that out in you.
-Gayathri, 40, NJ, USA I think girls should focus on finding a friend that makes them happy and that they have shared interests with.
-Gina , 40, NJ, USA Cliques are hard to escape. They are just a group of friends. If a group won't let you be friends TRY to find other group. Easier said than done sometimes.
-Diana, 57, CA, USA Cliques are a part of life that everyone has to accept, but that doesn’t mean you should dwell on them.
-Amanda, 18, NJ, USA They exists, don't worry about them. just find good kind friends.
-Josephine, 46, NJ, USA Cliques are most likely a natural thing that happens during high school and they can stink. Maybe you wanted to hang out with a person, but they seem stuck to another group. Younger girls shouldn’t worry about them though. I’ve learned that as long as you are your own self and kind, good fun people will want to be your friend and you’ll have people that don’t care about things like “cliques.”
-Nikitha, 18, NJ, USA Cliques are a real thing and I think they can be quite tough for young girls. Remembering to be your own person, do what makes you feel most happy is important and try to find one or two people that you feel are honest and real. Don't go along with the crowd.
-Carrie, 49, NJ, USA I don't think cliques are that big of a problem. I've been to two elementary schools, middle school, and then switched to a private high school, and not once have I seen anything remotely resembling a clique. Of course, friend groups do exist, and are often quite tight-knit, but these groups typically mind their own business and maintain a good relation with other groups. Oh yeah also in case I haven't made it clear yet, young girls don't need to worry about cliques at all. There are so many more important and realistic things to worry about.
-Em, 16, CA, USA |
I like them and dislike them at the same time. They can be very supportive but also exclusive. I think having a good support system is important. I wouldn't worry about them too much.
-Fiona, 17, NJ, USA Cliques are seemingly inevitable. I think the inevitability of cliques is what is most hindering to younger girls, who may be affected with a more negative self-esteem. However, I think in life, girls will always find their "clique" and always find people they feel comfortable with, people they will love, and people they will trust.
-Marisa, 17, NJ, USA Cliques aren’t very important to me, but younger girls should worry about them if they feel like they have to be someone else in order to fit into these cliques.
-Marissa, 18, NJ, USA Cliques are natural, and awful. Worrying about them doesn't help - they will happen. Just be you, and find your people. Don't be afraid to be in more than one group.
-Aviva, 17, CA, USA I never had one— never thought I needed it to be happy or loved. Younger girls should definitely not waste time or energy on needing to be liked by everyone because having cliques changes fast after high school, and nobody has time for that.
-Victoria, 18, NJ, USA Don't worry about them because later on in life you'll find your true people that you are meant to be with.
-Nina, 17, CA, USA That cliques mean nothing, you can be friends with whoever you want. Younger girls shouldn’t worry about them because I think they should show everyone what it’s like to not be cliquey.
-Alexandra, 17, NJ, USA Young girls should rely on their friendships with people they trust and share interests rather than worry about a clique. Cliques mean nothing in the real world.
-Daniella, 17, NJ, USA I’ve never liked them but I think it’s human nature to be exclusive. I don’t think they should worry. Find your people and forget about the people who ignore you.
-Mira, 17, NJ, USA I wouldn't worry about them, though it’s important to have good friends which isn't hard to find if you look.
-Nina, 17, NJ, USA I think cliques are stupid, yet do exist. I believe cliques are naturally occurring though. For example, cliques in [my town] are more friend groups that enjoy the same interests and go well together. there really isn't a specific label to any group. That is why I think cliques and labels are stupid.
-Morgan, 16, NJ, USA No! Cliques aren't cool. Make lots of different friends because it helps you find yourself rather than conforming to everyone else around you.
-Cassia, 17, NJ, USA Cliques are bad when they’re full of bad behavior. Groups of girls sticking together can be a positive thing if each clique respects and appreciates the others. No one has time for mean girls.
-Alexandra, 29, NJ, USA Clique can just be a fancy word for exclusion, and sometimes people cling to cliques because they’re afraid of being on their own. They aren’t worth your worry, and if you’re haven’t already, you will absolutely find a group of people you like spending time with, and you’ll be your own group that the popular kids won’t understand.
-Katherine, 18, Hong Kong Cliques are dangerous. Try to stay away from them. Be kind and inviting to everyone.
-Stephanie, 22, NJ, USA It's never fun being the one left out. Younger girls should focus on their own personal success and health rather than fitting in. When you get older, it's better to stand out!
-Jaime, 31, NJ, USA Just avoid them, and work on finding genuine and #wholesome connections.
-Jasmine, 17, Hong Kong There will be cliques, and there will be times when you're jealous or feel left out. Don't let your emotions take control of your actions; find one or two people who genuinely care about you. Having a few friends who love you and are there for you at all times is so much better than having a huge clique who doesn't care.
-Justine, 17, CA, USA You will find your friend(s) over time. The worst thing is to join a clique that you don't like. I waited 4 years in high school not joining any bad cliques, and I finally found my best friend :)
-Raymond, 17, CA, USA Be comfortable with yourself and with being alone. Cliques only have power when you care about being a part of one.
-Emily, 40, MA, USA Cliques are only powerful if you acknowledge them. In reality, the clique is made up of a bunch of individuals who all have flaws and insecurities like the rest of us. I used to be intimidated by cliques (and I was never in one). Now I realize that I gave them power by putting them on a pedestal in my mind. They definitely didn’t belong there, and I probably would have been happier if I had realized that.
-Alessandra, 35, NJ, USA Cliques are often viewed negatively because of their exclusivity, and likelihood of emphasizing social hierarchies. Younger girls should spend more energy meeting different people, and hanging out with people who are more open-minded, and are more willing to be inclusive of others. This can foster a happier social environment.
-Sabrina, 18, Hong Kong Cliques are kind of annoying but essentially inevitable. Younger girls should definitely not worry about them because in the long run they aren't important and as long as someone has a few close friends they are fine.
-Sumana, 15, NJ, USA It depends on the “clique” and who they are and what they stand for .. there are several cliques you can be a part of that are inspirational and positive and makes a difference… you just have to choose wisely.
-Monique, 36, NJ, USA Not at all- once high school is over the cliques will dissolve and won't matter anymore. Rise above the mean girls!
-Meagan, 32, NJ, USA They shouldn’t worry about them but I understand it’s hard not to. Cliques don’t mean anything past high school and if you think about it that’s much longer than the time spent through middle/high school. Just stay true to yourself.
-Micaela, 24, NJ, USA I have never had any experience with them, but I do know that they exist. Just have fun with your friends and enjoy life as much as you can!
-Nikita, 16, CA, USA No worry about who you clique with in general if you make friends with a girl and her friends don't like you it's not the end of the world. It's hard at the time but you wanna get to be yourself and others will follow. It's hard to not have friends but harder to lose yourself trying to impress people.
-Amanda, 23, CA, USA I think that the word cliques have a bad connotation, but they don't necessarily have to be a bad thing. Cliques can give you a support group and a group of friends. I think younger girls don't need to worry about them.
-Cara, 16, CA, USA They’re not necessarily needed, group of friends shouldn’t determine who can join and not join just by their opinion of how the other person dresses, acts or what culture they’re from. Young girls worry about them, but in the end, it’s something that won’t be the thing that gets them through life’s hardships. You only need one or two good friends for that and families support.
-Kathy, 27, CA, USA At the moment, it may see like cliques are the biggest deal. Truth is that after high school, all of that does not matter in the real world.
-Mackenzie, 21, NJ, USA Some cliques are explicitly exclusive, some may help younger girls feel like they fit in.
-Veronika, 15, CA, USA I think we should follow others and be our own person.
-Katherine, 17, CA, USA Cliques help people feel safe but sometimes they can be damaging. Usually cliques come with pressure and judgment from within the group. They tend to value themselves as a whole but put down others on the “outside”. It’s nice to have a core group of friends but being friends with people across different groups can be the better way to go. You get exposed to more people and get to know friends as true friends, not friends by default.
-Marlena, 27, Queensland, Australia I think technically any friend group could be classified as a clique, so chances are if you have friends you’re in a clique. You have the band clique and the choir clique and the actor clique and the science clique, so cliques aren’t really a problem. Although for the stereotypical mean girl cliques, just show them you’re not taking anything lying down. Fighting back may not make them go away right away, but it will make life more interesting and probably get you a lot of friends of the other people they bully!
-Kara, 16, NJ, USA I've personally never experienced real problems with cliques, but social dynamics definitely vary from school to school. I feel like you can use your best judgment and common sense when dealing with cliques. If they seem very exclusive of anyone "below their level", you should probably be careful around them. I'd advise against joining a clique - cliquey girls don't seem like nice people anyway. You may feel cool if you're in a clique, but it's important to be aware of the way you're treating others outside of the clique, too.
-Selina, 16, CA, USA Yes girls are worried about them however I dealt with it by not being concerned about being in one and fostering my friendships. It worked! Same friends for 40 years and no cliques! I don’t like them at all.
-Pam, 53, NJ, USA I think that cliques exclude girls and make girls feel self conscious about themselves. They should try not to worry about them, and just be confident in themselves.
-Charlotte, 53, NJ, USA Cliques are complicated and I think it's pointless to say "don't worry about them." Because, inevitably, you will worry about them. In school (for me, at least), I felt like the different cliques had varying levels of desirability. You wanted to be in the cheerleaders' clique, you didn't want to be in the nerds' clique, that sort of thing. As I've gotten older, though, I realize that different groups of people simply have different interests, and you will naturally gravitate toward people who share your interests. My best advice is to embrace the groups of people you naturally gravitate toward and who make you feel happy and special and healthy, no matter their perceived level of desirability at your school. This will serve you well in the long run.
-Ali, 28, FL, USA |