Class Ranking: A Necessary Evil

JOYCE LAM
Editor in Chief

Across the nation, high school seniors have probably received their class ranking. That class ranking is representative of your high school success—well, somewhat. Class rankings are used to measure how well a student performs in comparison to their fellow classmates. In addition, many colleges and universities ask for class ranking on their undergraduate applications, making it a factor considered during admissions process. Not only do admission sofficers find it necessary for students to have a class rank, scholarship committees tend to look at these rankings as a component in awarding scholarships to students.
About 45% of high schools in America have class rankings. Many colleges prefer that students report their class rankings. This way, admissions officers do not need to place even more emphasis upon standardized test scores. But as much as these admissions officers would like to see a student’s class ranking, many schools continue to avoid class rankings. How could that be?
It’s no shock that a student, parent or even high school administrator would support the removal of the system of class rankings. And as a student, it’s an awful feeling to know that you may not be viewed the same as another student because of this number. As said in the 2006 New York Times article “Schools Avoid Rankings, Vexing Colleges,” often times, students are separated in class rankings by a few hundredths of a point in the four-point grading system. For competitive high schools, public and private, the gap between a student ranked second and a student ranked 14th could be a speck. Unfortunately, a student may feel discouraged by the tiny numbers that can cause this difference in ranking.
Based on personal experience, class ranking is disheartening. The thought of ranking the same as another student who may not have challenged themselves with an honors or Advanced Placement course may cause a feeling of deficiency. No, I’m not saying that these students are lazy or unable to achieve success, but is it right to put all students on the same level? It very well looks like all students are seen on the same level when we touch base with the topic of class ranking, but I’m optimistic that my entire transcript will be put into account, rather than these “significant” figures attached to me.
In the end, class rank just seems to be one of those cut-throat competitions for students to race to the top. Yes, worry is a big factor when it comes to class rankings. But if we strive to do our best and put ourselves up for the challenges that come with education, then I’m positive that this number attached to my name doesn’t represent me and my achievements in my academic career. I have the impulse to say that I have little concern with these digits alongside my transcript, but in reality, there’s no way to run from the horrors of class ranking—unless something is changed in this ranking system. Until then, we’ll just have deal with it.