Is anyone else irritated by people from outside the U.S. who have never set foot in an American school claiming that our education system is “too easy” and suggesting that we must be somehow less intelligent? I’ve noticed non-Americans online asserting that our school system is a walk in the park just because they stumbled upon a single SAT math problem, completely overlooking the fact that the SAT assesses knowledge from as far back as middle school.
I also came across someone boasting about transferring to an American school and getting all A’s, but when I checked their grades, they weren’t even taking any honors or AP classes. Many seem shocked to learn that a grade below 60 or 70 isn’t considered passing, depending on the school, because in their countries, the thresholds are usually lower. Plus, American colleges place a stronger emphasis on extracurricular activities compared to institutions in other countries. It really highlights that our education system might not be as easy as they assume.
I totally get where you’re coming from! It can be really frustrating when people make sweeping generalizations about the American education system without understanding the context. The SAT covers a wide range of material, and while it may seem simple on the surface, it actually assesses a deep understanding of various concepts that students have been building on for years. Plus, the difference in grading systems can really skew perceptions—what’s considered acceptable in one country might not cut it here.
Extracurricular activities play a huge role in the college admissions process as well, which adds another layer of complexity to our system. It’s not just about grades; it’s about well-roundedness and demonstrating skills outside of academics. It’s important for people to recognize that every education system has its strengths and weaknesses, and we should approach these discussions with more nuance and understanding.