Many families approach me with a singular focus when their children enter high school: “What does my child need to do to get into a prestigious college?” This mindset views high school exclusively as a stepping stone—a means to an end rather than a meaningful chapter in their child’s development.

In the previous post, we examined how college offers far more than job training or prestige. This second installment of “The Hidden Purpose” series will focus on uncovering how high school similarly contains hidden values that go unnoticed when viewed merely as a college admissions strategy.

The College Admission Fixation

high school classroomIn my work with students and their families, I regularly hear statements like:

  • “We need to choose classes based only on what colleges want to see.”
  • “My child needs to participate in ten extracurriculars because that’s what competitive colleges expect.”
  • “My student needs to declare a major and career path before finishing their sophomore year.”

These perspectives (with the latter being the most concerning) reflect a common misunderstanding about what high school is truly designed to accomplish.

Of course, it’s perfectly natural to be concerned about college admissions. The competitive landscape of higher education creates immense pressure, and this anxiety often begins well before junior year.

Parents worry their children will fall behind without a strategic plan focused entirely on college admission outcomes. Students, in turn, frequently internalize these expectations, believing their worth is measured by college acceptances rather than by growth and learning.

These concerns, while understandable, miss the broader value of the high school experience. Let me offer an alternative perspective.

Reframing the High School Experience

High school should be viewed as an end in itself—a critical period of growth and development. The physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development during these four years is profound. Rather than rushing through with eyes fixed solely on college applications, students benefit from being present and engaged in their current educational journey.

Additionally, high school provides other important values that should not be overlooked.

Building Academic Foundations

High school also serves as a training ground for developing academic skills that will serve students regardless of their next steps. For college-bound students, it introduces more advanced academic work, teaching them to think critically, write persuasively, and manage increasingly complex responsibilities.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

Perhaps most importantly, high school offers students the opportunity to begin the lifelong process of self-discovery.

During this time, students start separating from their family units and peer groups, developing individual values, interests, and perspectives. They begin asking fundamental questions about who they are and what matters to them.

What High School Isn’t Designed to Do

It’s worth noting what high school is not designed to accomplish. Despite pressure to identify college majors and career paths during high school, our American education system isn’t structured to facilitate this process effectively. We follow a liberal arts model that intentionally provides a broad foundation rather than early specialization.

This approach sometimes frustrates those who believe they must have a clear career direction before college. However, rushing this process often leads to premature decisions based on limited exposure. True vocational clarity typically emerges gradually through college coursework, internships, and experiences that high school cannot replicate.

Finding a Healthier Balance

When we reframe our understanding of high school’s purpose, we create space for authentic growth. Students freed from the singular pressure of college admissions often develop into more confident, curious learners who approach college with greater maturity and self-awareness.

At Mercer Educational Consulting, we guide families through this important life stage with strategies that honor both immediate goals and the longer journey of education. If you’re struggling to balance college preparation with supporting your child’s broader development during high school, I’m here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation about how we can help your student thrive during these formative years.

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In the final post of “The Hidden Purpose” series, we’ll explore how effective college counseling serves as the bridge between high school and college, revealing the true purpose of this partnership.