Response to "Discussion-based Topic" by Elizabeth Pitroff

In this post, I will be responding to Elizabeth Pitroff's post, entitled "Discussion-based Topic"
http://elizabethpitroff.blogspot.com/2013/05/discussion-based-topic.html

In regard to Elizabeth's question at the end of her post, I also, like Elizabeth, strive for academic excellence. However, I do not feel as though my goal of getting good grades is hindering my desire to gain knowledge. I do realize that some students could care less about what they are learning, they only care about getting good,  or at least decent, grades. However in my case, I care about actually gaining knowledge and enjoy my classes. I think one of the reasons why some students only care about grades is because of the way students get rewarded for them. For example, students with good grades can graduate with honors, get recognition for making the Dean's List, and receive scholarships among other benefits for their academic excellence. Although I enjoy these benefits, I care more about gaining knowledge than simply getting good grades.