The Application

Christy: Can you imagine? 4 hours a day of homework! That’s what my friend said she’s got every night there. I thought college was supposed to be easier than high school, am I right?

Mrs. Green: Who told you that?

Christy: I mean, I’m no stranger to hard work, don’t get me wrong. I’m an entrepreneur. I spend, at least, 2- 3 hours a day perfecting my Insta feed and stories, I post at least once on Tik Tok. And if I have extra time, I’ll even make a Twitter comment, to target, you know, the older demographic... like you.

Mrs. Green: Really?

(to herself)

Christy: Yeah, I know. It’s a lot, right?! All while juggling homework, boys, and cheerleading. Not everyone can handle this kind of lifestyle, but that’s why I think I really am Harvard material. If Jenny can do it, I can too. Maybe I should apply for one of those 20 under 20 lists. That could really help. I mean, I am a high school business owner.

Mrs. Green: I’m pretty sure you don’t apply for those lists. And what is your business exactly?

Christy: I just you told you. Me... I’m an influencer.

Mrs. Green: I see... Christy, I’m going to level with you. While I think these social media efforts of yours are an... interesting use of your time, they’re not exactly helpful for getting you accepted into colleges. And they’re definitely not furthering your education.

Christy: Oh, there’s a lot to learn on socials, Mrs. Green. I could teach you -

Mrs. Green: No, Christy that’s fine, thank you. But you’re missing the point. Because you’ve been spending so much time on these... extracuriciulars, your grades have really fallen this last year. We have to focus on getting those back up if you want to get into a good college. And I think it’s safe to say that Harvard is off the table. Christy’s attitude shifts, wind out of her sails.

Christy: That’s what my dad said.

Mrs. Green: Well, your dad’s a smart man. We all want what’s best for you. And I think applying your talents and efforts to your studies will help you become a more well-rounded person and help you get into a better school.

Christy: I just... I was never good at many things, you know. Before this. And then I started posting. And people liked it. I feel like I’m finally doing something that I’m good at. Something that makes me stand out.

Mrs. Green: I can understand that. And I’m not saying to stop posting entirely.

Mrs. Green: 3. But don’t let those platforms define you. You are special already.

Christy: Really?

Mrs. Green: When I look at you, I see a motivated girl with a very bright future ahead of her. If you aren’t afraid of the hard work. The real value in life comes from the things you work really hard for. Use that same passion you have for this and apply it to your studies, and you’ll go far, I promise you.

Christy: Wow, that was a really great speech Mrs. Green. I needed that.

Mrs. Green: I’m glad.

Christy: Do you mind if I post it? Mrs. Green sighs.

Mrs. Green: Sure.