Is Popularity and Romance at Young Age Worth it?

By: Karl Morkunas

Of all my time as a middle school and high school student, Ive found that the maturity level of young adults is at a surprisingly consistent low. One will find that they not only have to be of "popular" standards within the school student body, but become involved in degrading illicit acts. What about the involved, strong academic student that pulls stellar grades in rigorous, challenging courses? By todays modern standards having a strong academic history obviously is no longer a turn-on to the opposite sex in most cases, thus demoting young people to achieve what theyll need if they wish to seek a higher education in their future.

           What exactly must one do to become noticed? The answer is going to parties, get involved in illegal activities, drink alcohol, and do drugs. Unless you want to become a pot-smoking, alcoholic convict, then by all means become "popular" by the degenerate society. On the other hand the intellectuals take a different stand on the situation. The antithesis of the "popular kids", they find enjoyment in activities such as becoming involved in school extra-circular activities, seeing movies with friends, having discussions about every day life, or engaging in the promotion of exercise (swimming, tennis, bike riding, running, etc.).

           So is it worth it to become entangled within the degenerate society and stoop to illegal acts to achieve "popularity"? Does the idea of a "hot" girlfriend or "fine" boyfriend only come to those who can degrade themselves to acts of stupidity? We live in a society where this is ever so common and apparent among the youth of America. Why are young people attracted to other low-lifes in society? What provokes these teen's minds to think that if they ride on the "bleeding edge" of danger they will be cool? This concern is not conversed about enough, as it should be by teens and adults. Additionally many of these questions still remain unanswered and guidance is not being readily given to teens.

           Now the question you must ask yourself is: What can I do to set the society back to the norm where intelligence is respected, and appealing, and being classed as a good kid is an attractive trait; not a boring, bland turn-off? If you are a teen reading this article, explain to any of your friends that subject themselves to negativity, the myriad of benefits of being an "intellectual" and the serious repercussions of illicit acts. If you are a parent explain to your kids that their life will be rich and joyous if they are too seek out a life as an intellect. Guidance counselors and teachers need to promote a widespread message to young people. Weve seen the incentive programs by the schools, such as the Principals Reading Program, but this is just one step taken in a thousand mile long journey to reversing the corrupt view apparent in Americas youth. The media is also a primary culprit in the convoluted mindset in teens, however theyre in it for the financial gains, not morality issue. If teens, adults, the school systems/administrators, teachers, counselors, and the media were to give this issue their 100% committed support in establishing a positive frame of mind to the youth, then I strongly believe that we can set a healthier, prosperous future for the present and future youth of the United States.