An architect sketches new designs, a plumber fixes the pipes, a congressman drafts a bill… So to students have a responsibility to learn and become more informed and productive citizens. Colleges view your academics as your primary responsibility. Think of yourself as a business owner and you need to hire managers. You would not hire someone who would not do their job well because that will directly affect your business. Similarly, because colleges view you as a full-time worker’ they expect you to have a strong academic standing. Your grades and GPA are more than just numbers. They tell a lot about your work ethic and skills such as time management, resilience/perseverance, sense of responsibility and urgency. Your grades could also help predict how well you are likely to do in college.