TED TALK: Defining Intellect, Since Academics Don’t

In an era defined by technological advancement and entrepreneurial vision that has revolutionized and optimized every aspect of our lives, we need to address a very simple fact: academic excellence is not an indicator of intellect, nor is it a predictor of future success. Conformity does not yield accomplishment, and education is not complete within the four walls of a classroom. Innovation and cognizance are more accurate indicators of true intellectual worth and an ability for individuals to think intensively in ways that can change the world. These indicators require qualities that academic grades aren’t usually capable in assessing, including creativity, leadership, teamwork skills, or even social, emotional, and political intelligence. All of these qualities are typically developed through experience and engagement in projects or activities, which is why I believe that the cultivation of insight does not come from the conformity to standardized education, but from an active engagement and curiosity-driven cognizance in one’s interests.