How were your grades in school? Did they lead to a successful career?

Question

I am trying to prove a point to someone that academic success is a direct correlation to one's career in life. For example, to become a doctor, one must master years of academia before working in that field. I will only consider "intelligent" answers. Thanks!

Answer 1

I believe there are definitely two sides to this coin. We can show examples from both sides all day long. However, as it may not be a direct correlation there is one there. I myself am a high school dropout, but by making the right decisions in my career I have done well for myself and consistently earn 6 figures year after year. I must say it took me a lot longer then my associate who with a college degree and outstanding GPA got there a lot quicker. He is 10 years younger then me, I am 37. I do believe someone who works hard in school and carries a higher GPA has a much greater chance of success. It is recognized as dedication, motivation and this is something even I would be looking for in an employee.

Answer 2

It depends on what you study! If you study Medieval and Roman Studies, even if you have a 4.0 GPA your career options will be limited (and low-paying). Whereas if you study Commerce or Economics, you can get a lower grade and still choose from a wider variety of higher-paying jobs.

I myself left highschool with a 94% average and went on to study English Lit at university. I had an "average" GPA for the first three years, and a very high GPA in my last year (I could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel). A lot of people (grad schools, some employers, scholarships for further study, etc) only look at your final 10 courses, so doing well in those often means more than doing well in your first three years combined!

Answer 3

I was a 4.0 student. Of course it you want to become a doctor you are required to have years of schooling.

You can do that for any career but it doesn't mean you will have a successful job, business or be wealthy.

You have to remember there is always a job opening for a doctor. The world is filled with sick people but what about other avenues of profession.

I disagree with you. You can spend 20 years in school with high marks and not have a good job. Just because your smart doesn't mean their are job openings.

Answer 4

I was a poor student that never really exceeded in school. I did go to college but that was just not wanted I was interested in. Now I have gotten into personal training and it has been very successful for me. I think it really comes down to passion. You can be extremely educated in your field, but if you don't have passion for it...then how can you truley pass your knowledge on. So no, I don't think academic success is a direct correlation to one's success in life.

Answer 5

I flunked out of high school and two colleges. Now I am a successful professional responsible for the international proprietary software of a $100 million company. In my spare time I coach soccer and I buy and sell houses for profit.

Some good friends of mine (from way back) who have masters degrees and even one with a doctorate, are dead. They overdosed on drugs, a few while partying with college friends.

Your theory is dirt. Nevermind me, look at Bill Gates.

Answer 6

My grades were excellent.

No great career, as I am completely lacking in ambition (or at least, in THAT type of ambition).

Grades tell you how good you are at SCHOOL, not how good you are at LIFE.

Does this make any sense to you?

Emotional and psychological factors enter into it, in addition to the intellectual ones.

Answer 7

High school: pretty good
College: not so great
Successful career: no.